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SMART-1
Testing solar-electric propulsion at the Moon.
Mission Overview
Europe's first mission to the Moon used ion thrusters to spiral out of Earth orbit and capture lunar gravity over several months.
Learning from History
"It confirmed the presence of calcium, magnesium, and silica on the lunar surface."
Mission Specs
| Year | 2003 |
|---|---|
| Country | ESA |
| Type | Orbiter |
| Destination | Moon |
| Status | Success |
| Rocket | PPS-1350 Ion Engine |