Zond 2 Mars Flyby

    Zond 2 was Russian space probe sent to Mars. It was under Soviet's Zond Programme. It was a fifth attempt of Russia, but results in spacecraft failure due to the loss of communication before it's flyby. It was planned to take closeup image of Mars during its flyby in early 1964.

LAUNCH :

     Zond 2 Spacecraft is also known as 3MV-4 No.2. It was carried by Soviet Rocket series Molniya T103-16 from Baikanour launch station on 30th November 1964. It was very close to Mars on 6th August 1965. It was intended to analyse Mars atmosphere.

INSTRUMENTS CARRIED:

1. Phototelevision Camera
2. Two ultra-violet spectrometers
3. Infrared Spectrometer
4.PPT acutators

FUNCTIONS OF INSTRUMENTS:

     Phototelevision Camera mounted to take photograph of Mars. Ultra-Voilet spectrometers were planned to detect metals and biological macro molecules. Infrared Spectrometer was planned to detect signs of Methane.

REASON BEHIND FAILURE:

    The spacecraft ran on half power due to the loss of one of its Solar Panel. It was very close to Mars on 6th August 1965. Finally the communication between Zond 2 flyby and the Members of Zond Programme on August 6, 1965.