description Luna 10 Overview
Luna 10 was a Soviet robotic spacecraft launched in 1966 as part of the Luna program. It achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first artificial satellite to successfully orbit the Moon. During its active mission, the spacecraft gathered and transmitted scientific data on the Moon's magnetic field, ambient radiation levels, and the chemical composition of local rocks. It was equipped with various instruments, including a magnetometer and meteoroid counters.
help Luna 10 FAQ
Why was Luna 10 historically important?
Luna 10 became the first spacecraft to enter orbit around another celestial body when it reached lunar orbit in April 1966. That achievement came three years before the first crewed Moon landing.
What did Luna 10 measure around the Moon?
Its instruments studied gamma radiation, charged particles, cosmic rays, magnetic conditions, and micrometeoroids. The radiation measurements provided information about the composition of the lunar surface.
Did Luna 10 land on the Moon?
No. Unlike the Soviet Luna 9 soft lander, Luna 10 remained in lunar orbit and transmitted scientific data back to Earth.
How long did Luna 10 return data?
The spacecraft entered lunar orbit on April 3, 1966, and communicated until late May of that year. It completed hundreds of lunar orbits before its batteries were exhausted.
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