Lockheed Martin Lunar Prospector Athena II
About the Lunar Prospector Mission
| Type | Robotic Exploration |
|---|---|
| Orbit | Lunar Orbit |
Lunar Prospector was a small spin stabilized lunar orbiter. Using its Gamma Ray Spectrometer (GRS), it collected a large amount of scientific data that helps researchers understand the chemical composition of the lunar surface.
Launch Pad & Location
Space Launch Complex 46
Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA
| Launches | 6 |
|---|---|
| Orbital Launch Attempts | 5 |
| Total Launches | 1130 |
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS) is an installation of the United States Space Force's Space Launch Delta 45, located on Cape Canaveral in Brevard County, Florida.
Lockheed Martin Athena II Rocket
The Athena II is an American small expendable launch system which was used for three launches between 1998 and 1999.
| Length | 28.2 m |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 2.4 m |
| Stages | 4 |
| Launch Mass | 120.0 T |
| Takeoff Thrust | 1,900.0 kN |
| LEO Capacity | 2,065 kg |
| GTO Capacity | 593 kg |
| SSO Capacity | 1,165 kg |
| Maiden Flight | 1/7/1998 |
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin's Space Division started in the production of missiles and later ICBM's in the 1950s. Their TITAN missile system was used for 12 Gemini spacecraft and the Voyager probes. They have worked largely in collaboration with NASA on many of their probes, landers, and spacecraft, and hope to play a key role in NASA's return to the moon in 2024.
| Total Launches | 80 |
|---|---|
| Successful | 77 |
| Failed | 3 |
| Consecutive Success | 38 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Lockheed Martin Athena II Lunar Prospector launch scheduled?
The Lockheed Martin Athena II Lunar Prospector launch was scheduled for:
.
Where did the Lockheed Martin Athena II Lunar Prospector mission launch from?
The Lockheed Martin Athena II rocket launched from Space Launch Complex 46 at Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA. Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS) is an installation of the United States Space Force's Space Launch Delta 45, located on Cape Canaveral in Brevard County, Florida.
What rocket was used for the Lunar Prospector mission?
The Lunar Prospector mission launched aboard a Lockheed Martin Athena II rocket. The Athena II is an American small expendable launch system which was used for three launches between 1998 and 1999. Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could have delayed the Lockheed Martin Athena II Lunar Prospector launch?
The Lockheed Martin Athena II Lunar Prospector launch could have been delayed by various weather conditions including lightning within 10 nautical miles, high winds (especially upper-level winds), thick cloud layers, precipitation, and poor visibility. Weather must be favorable at the launch site, downrange landing zones, and abort landing sites.
How can I get updates if the Lockheed Martin Athena II Lunar Prospector launch was delayed?
This page was updated in real-time with the latest Lockheed Martin Athena II launch status, including any delays or scrubs for the Lunar Prospector mission. You can also check our space launch schedule for historical launch information. Our mobile app provides push notifications for instant alerts about launch status changes. Official Lockheed Martin live streams provided the most immediate range updates during the launch window.
Last Updated
Last Updated: