Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This is a 1/24th scale model of the Pioneer Venus Orbiter, which entered orbit around Venus on December 4, 1978. Along with its multiprobe carrier, Pioneer Venus made simultaneous measurements of the planet. From orbit, the Pioneer Venus spacecraft used instruments mounted on the forward end of its cylinder, as well as a magnetometer on a 4.7 m boom to take measurements of the atmosphere, magnetosphere, and other attributes of Venus. Pioneer Venus remained in orbit after its primary mission had ended. In 1991 its radar mapper was reactivated to investigate previously inaccessible southern portions of the planet. In May 1992 the spacecraft began the final phase of its mission investigating the Venusian atmosphere, where it was destroyed in August 1992.

The Hughes Aircraft Company donated this to the Museum in 1975.

 Display Status

This object is on display in Kenneth C. Griffin Exploring the Planets Gallery at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

Kenneth C. Griffin Exploring the Planets Gallery
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type MODELS-Uncrewed Spacecraft & Parts Manufacturer Hughes Aircraft Co.
 Dimensions Approximate: 15.24 x 10.8cm (6in. x 4 1/4in.)
 Materials Plastic, mylar, metal, paper, kapton
 Inventory Number A19750779000 Credit Line Gift of Hughes Aircraft Co. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.