Have a look at the essential concepts, terms and events from the static and current parts of UPSC-CSE.
Word: BepiColombo
Subject: Science (Space)
Why in the news?
The BepiColombo mission captured a beautiful image of Mercury’s crater-marked surface as the spacecraft flew closer to the planet for gravity assist maneuvers.
What is Bepicolombo?
It is Europe’s first mission to Mercury. It was launched on 20 October 2018.
It is on a seven-year journey to the smallest and least-discovered terrestrial planet in our Solar System.
— When it arrives at Mercury in late 2025, it will endure temperatures of more than 350 degrees Celsius and gather data during its nominal one-year mission, with a possible one-year extension.
The mission consists of two spacecraft: the Mercury Planetary Orbiter (MPO) and the Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter (Mio).
BepiColombo is a joint mission between ESA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), executed under the leadership of ESA.
Why is the Bepicolombo mission challenging?
Mercury’s proximity to the Sun makes the mission very challenging. It is difficult for spacecraft to reach the planet and survive in harsh environmental conditions.
What have been the past missions to Mercury?
– Mariner 10 – NASA flyby mission to Venus and Mercury (1973)
– MESSENGER – NASA Orbiter to Mercury (2004)
(source: esa.int)
Point to consider: Where do India and China stand in terms of space strategy?
mcqs ,Try after reading this article)
Which of the following statement is wrong?
a) BepiColombo is a joint mission between ESA and JAXA.
b) MESSENGER was NASA’s first flyby mission to Venus and Mercury.
c) The Mars Perseverance Rover mission is part of NASA’s Mars Exploration Program.
d) BepiColombo is Europe’s first mission to Mercury.
Answers for previous mcqs: UPSC Essentials: Case Study of the Week- (B)
