Robotic Observatories & Rovers

Lunar Orbiter 2

Vehicle: Atlas-Agena | Launch Site: Cape Canaveral / Vandenberg SFB

Lunar Orbiter 2 mission operations

Mission Overview

Lunar Orbiter 2 was a critical uncrewed satellite of the Lunar Orbiter series. Lunar mapping probe searching for suitable Apollo landing sites. This spacecraft gathered key details on the solar wind, magnetic environments, planetary atmospheres, or terrestrial changes. The telemetry and scientific records from this spacecraft advanced solar system geology, atmospheric science, and instrument telemetry.

Payload & Instruments

Mission Purpose

Planetary remote sensing and cosmic environment assay

Scientific Instrumentation

  • Magnetometer: Specialized telemetry sensor array.
  • Electrostatic analyzer: Specialized telemetry sensor array.
  • Cosmic ray detector: Specialized telemetry sensor array.
  • Ultraviolet spectrometer: Specialized telemetry sensor array.

Scientific Discoveries

Recorded valuable physical data, aiding spatial mapping of electromagnetic radiation, solar wind interactions, or geographical profiles.

Multimedia Gallery

Lunar Orbiter 2 launch operations photography

Official NASA historical record photography for Lunar Orbiter 2.