MISSION SET FOR LAUNCH
Europe is preparing to launch its first mission to the moon.
At just one metre square, Smart-1 is tiny in comparison to NASA's trips to the lunar surface.
Europe is preparing to launch its first mission to the moon.
At just one metre square, Smart-1 is tiny in comparison to NASA's trips to the lunar surface.
But it is packed with high-tech equipment - including a drive powered by the sun.
The unmanned flight will blast off with the launch of an Ariane 5 rocket from a base in Kourou, French Guiana, late on Saturday or early Sunday.
The rocket will rely on energy generated by solar panels used by "ion engines" that provide a thrust of charged particles.
It is the first time such technology has been used to reach the moon
well at least it is off now...it was delayed last time it was due to lift off...
www.sky.com... 
