# Mariner 3

> robotic deep-space probe to Mars

**Wikidata**: [Q719652](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q719652)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariner_3)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mariner-3

## Summary
Mariner 3 was a robotic deep-space probe to Mars, launched on November 5, 1964, as part of the Mariner program. Operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the probe experienced a loss of control shortly after launch, preventing it from completing its mission.

## Key Facts
*   **Type:** Space probe, uncrewed spaceflight, artificial satellite of the Sun
*   **Mission:** Robotic deep-space probe to Mars
*   **Operator:** National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
*   **Manufacturer:** Jet Propulsion Laboratory
*   **Launch Date:** November 5, 1964
*   **Launch Site:** Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 13
*   **Launch Vehicle:** Atlas-Agena D
*   **Preceded By:** Mariner 2
*   **Followed By:** Mariner 4
*   **Cause of Destruction:** Loss of control on November 6, 1964

## FAQs
### Q: What was Mariner 3?
A: Mariner 3 was a robotic deep-space probe designed to explore Mars. It was part of the Mariner program and operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

### Q: When was Mariner 3 launched?
A: Mariner 3 was launched on November 5, 1964, at 19:22:05 from Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 13.

### Q: What happened to Mariner 3?
A: Mariner 3 experienced a loss of control on November 6, 1964, shortly after its launch. This incident prevented the probe from successfully completing its mission to Mars.

### Q: Who operated Mariner 3?
A: Mariner 3 was operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

### Q: What was the purpose of Mariner 3?
A: The primary purpose of Mariner 3 was to serve as a robotic deep-space probe intended for a mission to Mars.

## Why It Matters
Mariner 3 holds significance as an early and ambitious attempt in humanity's robotic exploration of Mars. Launched as part of the pioneering Mariner program by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), it represented a crucial step in developing the capabilities for deep-space missions to other planets. Although the mission ultimately failed due to a loss of control shortly after its launch on November 5, 1964, its development and operational phase contributed to the evolving knowledge and technological expertise required for interplanetary travel. As the first of two probes launched in 1964 aimed at Mars, Mariner 3's experience, even in its unsuccessful outcome, likely provided invaluable data and lessons that informed the design, engineering, and operational procedures for subsequent spacecraft, including its successful twin, Mariner 4. It underscores the inherent challenges and complexities faced during the nascent stages of deep-space exploration and the iterative process of learning through both success and setback in the pursuit of scientific discovery.

## Notable For
*   Being one of the earliest robotic deep-space probes specifically designed for a mission to Mars.
*   Part of the pioneering Mariner program for interplanetary exploration.
*   Launched using an Atlas-Agena D expendable launch system.
*   Experienced a loss of control shortly after launch, preventing mission success.
*   Preceded Mariner 4, which successfully reached Mars.

## Body
### Overview
Mariner 3 was a robotic deep-space probe. Its primary mission was to explore Mars. The probe was a component of the broader Mariner program. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) operated Mariner 3. It was manufactured by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

### Launch and Mission
Mariner 3 was launched on November 5, 1964. The launch occurred at 19:22:05 UTC. The launch site was Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 13. The launch vehicle used was an Atlas-Agena D. Mariner 3 was intended to become an artificial satellite of the Sun, maintaining a heliocentric orbit.

### Mission Outcome
The significant event for Mariner 3 was its rocket launch. However, the probe suffered a loss of control on November 6, 1964. This loss of control occurred shortly after launch. Consequently, Mariner 3 was unable to complete its intended mission to Mars.

### Program Context
Mariner 3 followed Mariner 2 in the program sequence. Mariner 2 was a space probe launched in 1962 with a mission to Venus. Mariner 3 was subsequently followed by Mariner 4. Mariner 4 was another robotic spacecraft sent by NASA to Mars.

### Identifiers
*   COSPAR ID: 1964-073A
*   NSSDC ID: 1964-073A
*   SCN: 00923

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## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013