Pathfinder (spacecraft)

Pathfinder was a NASA spacecraft launched in 1996 to study Mars. Its primary goal was to test new landing technologies and gather detailed images and data of the Martian surface. It delivered a lander called Sojourner, the first successful rover to operate on Mars, which analyzed rocks and soil. Pathfinder also included an orbiter that transmitted high-resolution images back to Earth. This mission helped scientists understand Mars’ geology and climate, paving the way for future exploration. Overall, Pathfinder demonstrated key technologies for landing and exploring other planets, significantly advancing our ability to study distant worlds.