Topic summary
Space probes
Extracted from the Wikipedia article Space probe.
History
Space probes can be divided into several types according to their mission profile. A flyby probe passes near a celestial body without entering orbit. An orbiter enters orbit around a target body for long-term observation. A lander reaches the surface of a planet or moon, while a rover is capable of moving across the surface. Atmospheric probes descend through an atmosphere to study its composition and weather conditions.