Ranger program

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In the Moon race I cannot forget Ranger program, which was series of U.S. unmanned space missions in 1960s. The main objective was to get closer image of the surface of the Moon. The first 6 flights failed. The program was also called in certain time as "shoot and hope". 
The program had 3 block phases with different mission objectives. They have planned multiple launches in order to increase success of the mission. 

Block 1 missions

  • Ranger 1 was launched on August 23, 1961: lunar prototype, launch failure
  • Ranger 2 was launched on November 18, 1961: lunar prototype, launch failure
Block 2 missions
  • Ranger 3 was launched on January 26, 1962: lunar probe, spacecraft failed, missed Moon
  • Ranger 4 was launched on April 23, 1962: lunar probe, spacecraft failed, impact
  • Ranger 5 was launched on October 18, 1962: lunar probe, spacecraft failed, missed

Block 3 missions


  • Ranger 6 was launched on January 30, 1964; impact, camera failed
  • Ranger 7 was launched on July 28, 1964; impacted moon. This was the first successful U.S. lunar probe to bring close images of the lunar surface. 
  • Ranger 8 was launched on February 17, 1965; The probe also took close pictures. Picture helped to choose landing points for Apollo mission. 
  • Ranger 9 was launched on March 21, 1965; Also succeeded to take picture of the lunar surface. 

The block 3 missions consisted of 2 solar panel wings and hexagonal frame containing propulsion and power units, topped by conical tower in which was held cameras. 
NASA

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