Space Science Project of Coolness By Absolutely No One May 15, 1951 Sputnik Launched This essentially started the Space Race. Period: Jan 1, 1962 to Dec 31, 1973 Mariner Program These were sent out to study Mars, Venus, and Mercury. Aug 20, 1975 Viking 1 launched Sep 9, 1975 Viking 2 launched Sep 5, 1977 Voyager 1 Launched Apr 28, 1989 Magellan Launched Period: Apr 14, 1991 to Jul 8, 2011 Space Shuttle Program Oct 15, 1997 Cassini Launched Aug 8, 2001 Genesis Program Laundched Jan 10, 2003 Mars Exploration Rover Spirit launched Jan 4, 2004 Mars Exploration Rover Spirit lands on Mars Apr 25, 2004 Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity lands on Mars Jul 8, 2011 Last Space Shuttle Launched
