Also called:
would have been Mariner 8 if
successful; Mariner-Mars 71
Date of launch (range):
May. 8, 1971 (ETR)
Launch vehicle:
Atlas-Centaur
Shape:
octagonal with 4 solar panels
Weight (kg):
997.9
Dimensions (m):
1.38, width; 6.9 with solar panels
extended
2.44, height
Power source:
solar panels plus NiCd battery
Prime contractor:
in-house
Date of reentry:
N/A
Responsible NASA center:
JPL
Project manager:
D. Schneiderman
Project scientist:
R. H. Steinbacher
Objectives:
To study the physical and dynamic
characteristics of Mars from orbit for a minimum of 90 days.
Information to be obtained on composition, density,
pressure, and thermal properties of the atmosphere and the
characteristics, temperature, and topography of the surface
(twin mission Mariner 9).
Experiments (responsible
organization):
.
television (U.S. Geological
Survey)
ultraviolet spectroscopy (Univ. of
Colorado)
infrared spectroscopy (GSFC)
infrared radiometer (California
Institute of Technology)
S-band occultation (JPL)
celestial mechanics (JPL)
Results:
Unsuccessful; the Centaur upper stage
of the launch vehicle malfunctioned shortly after liftoff
and the spacecraft was destroyed.
Reference: MOR S-819-71-01/02, Apr. 12, 1971.