The computer-generated images below are SIMULATED views. The images were created using the Satellite Tool Kit (STK) software, which was developed by Analytical Graphics, Inc. Click on an image below to be directed to a descriptive caption and a larger, current view of the image.
Beginning in January 2008 additional Mercury surface features are displayed. These radar images, which came from the 1000-foot-diameter radar antenna at Arecibo, Puerto Rico, were provided by Professor Phillip Stooke of the University of Western Ontario.
The Solar System Simulator offers another option for viewing Venus and Mercury from the perspective of the MESSENGER spacecraft. This site offers views at any time (in five-minute increments) throughout the planned duration of the MESSENGER mission. The target planet may be viewed from MESSENGER using various fields of view.
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Current Orbit
This image shows MESSENGER's location in its current orbit (in yellow-brown). The image also shows the orbits and current positions of Mercury, Venus and Earth. Positions of stars with magnitude 9 or brighter are shown from this perspective that is above the Sun and north of Earth's orbit.
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Since Launch
This image shows the current position of the MESSENGER spacecraft, as well as the full orbital path (in yellow-brown) since launch. The image also shows the orbits and current positions of Mercury, Venus and Earth. Positions of stars with magnitude 9 or brighter are shown from this perspective that is above the Sun and north of Earth's orbit.
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View of Earth from MESSENGER
This image shows how Earth and its orbit (blue line) appear from the perspective of the MESSENGER spacecraft. The positions of the Sun, Mercury and Venus are marked when they appear in the 30-degree field of view. When visible, the apparent size of the Sun is shown. Positions of stars with magnitude 9 or brighter are shown.
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View of Mercury from MESSENGER
This image shows how Mercury and its orbit (white line) appear from the perspective of the MESSENGER spacecraft. The positions of the Sun, Mercury and Earth are marked when they appear in the 30-degree field of view. When visible, the apparent size of the Sun is shown. Near Mercury flybys, Mercury's size and surface features are accurately represented. Positions of stars with magnitude 9 or brighter are shown. |
