Mars

The first telescopic observation of Mars

Apr 25, 1690

The first telescopic observation of Mars was made by Galileo Galilei in 1610.

First person to draw Map of Mars

Apr 25, 1877

In 1877, Giovanni Schiaparelli, an Italian astronomer, was the first person to draw a map of Mars. His map showed a system of streaks or channels, which he called canali.

Korabl 4

Apr 25, 1960

Failed-it didn't reach orbit.

Marsnik 1 (Mars 1960A)

Apr 29, 1960

10 October 1960 - Attempted Mars Flyby (Launch Failure)

The first probe to Mars

Apr 25, 1962

was launched by Russia in 1962. It by-passed Mars but communication failed

Phoenix Mars Lander

Apr 25, 1962

Returned more than 25 gigabits of data!

Zond 2

Apr 29, 1964

This Soviet flyby mission went awry when its solar panels failed to fully open. Mission personnel lost contact with Zond 2 in May 1965.

Mariner 4

Apr 25, 1965

The first spacecraft to visit Mars.

Mars 3 Orbiter/Lander

Apr 25, 1971

Orbiter obtained approximately 8 months of data and lander landed safely, but only 20 seconds of data.

Viking 2 Orbiter/Lander

Apr 25, 1975

Returned 16,000 images and extensive atmospheric data and soil experiments.

Mars Global Surveyor

Apr 25, 1996

More images than all Mars Missions!!

Mars Polar Lander

Apr 29, 1999

This lander (launched separately) was to work in concert with Mars Climate Orbiter to study Mars’s climate and weather, but the lander also failed.

Mars Exploration Rover - Spirit

Apr 25, 2003

Operating lifetime of more than 15 times original warranty.

Mars Science Laboratory

Apr 25, 2011

It explored Mar's inhabibility.

MAVEN

Apr 29, 2013

18 November 2013 - Mars Scout Mission Orbiter. It is the most recent spacecraft going to Mars.