Mercury, the smallest rocky planet in our Solar System, remains one of the most enigmatic bodies due to its unique characteristics. Despite being a fascinating target for scientific study, Mercury has been poorly explored compared to other planets.
The primary reason is that Mercury’s proximity to the Sun makes it extremely difficult to observe from Earth. Unlike other planets, which are best viewed at night, Mercury rises and sets with the Sun, making it hard to spot. This feature also hinders spacecraft navigation, as the planet’s heat creates intense radiation that can damage electronic equipment.
NASA’s Mariner 10 flew past Mercury in the 1970s but failed to enter orbit. The agency’s MESSENGER spacecraft, launched in 2004, made history by becoming the first to orbit Mercury in 2011. However, even with this achievement, the planet remains one of the least known due to its extreme environment and challenging exploration conditions.
NASA’s continued efforts to explore Mercury are crucial for better understanding its composition, geology, and potential for life. Further research will help scientists unlock the secrets of this enigmatic planet, shedding new light on the mysteries of our Solar System.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/web-stories/trending/why-do-we-still-know-so-little-about-mercury-101750314093817.html