Viking 1 Showing Martian Dune Field

The Viking Landers

Viking Landers Information

Viking Lander Model

The primary scientific objectives of the Viking Landers was to study/investigate the biology of Mars, the chemical composition (organic and inorganic) of the atmosphere and soils, the meteorology (or weather) for the planet, the seismology of the planet, magnetic properties of the planet and rocks found, and the appearance and physical properties of the Martian surface and atmosphere (dust storms, rock colors, ice, etc.).

FUN FACT: In order to perform the biology experiments and determine chemical compositions on the surface of Mars, not only did the Lander have to be fully sterilized (all Earth origin bacteria and chemicals removed), but the fuel used to land (Hydrazine) also had to be purified, to prevent contaminating Mars and the Lander. They even encapsulated the Lander in a "Bioshield" to prevent any last minute contamination (from Earth) for when it was launched on Earth.

Stats Viking 1 Viking 2
Journey Time Earth-to-Mars Orbit 304 days 333 days
Journey Time Earth-to-Mars Surface 335 days 360 days
Lander Weight (w/o Fuel) 576 kg (or 1,270 pounds)
Lander Dimensions Approximately 3 meters Across & about 2 meters Tall (or 10 feet Across & 7 feet Tall)
Scientific Instruments
  • Imaging System
  • Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer
  • Seismometer
  • X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer
  • Biological Laboratory
  • Weather Instrument Package
  • Remote Sampler Arm
  • Upper Atmosphere Mass Spectrometer (Aeroshell)
  • Retarding Potential Analyzer (plus pressure and temperature sensors)
Computer System Two General-Purpose Computer Channels w/ Plated-Wire Memories (18,000-word storage each)
Power Systems
Miscellaneous Systems and Characteristics
  • Communications System (w/ Viking Orbiter)
  • Redundant Communications System (w/ Earth)
  • Landing Systems
    • Thrusters (or Engines) for Descent to Mars Surface (for Two Separate Stages during Landing)
    • An Aeroshell (for Lander Heat Protection)
    • Two Science Instruments
    • Radar Altimeters (for determining height above Mars surface)
    • Parachute
  • Lander Design
    • Mechanical Design (Struts, A-frame Assembly, Honey-combed Aluminum sections)
    • Painted Light Gray with Rubber-based Silicon (to reflect heat from the sun and protect components from sand abrasion)
    • Built of Aluminum and Titanium Alloys (Mixture) and Insulated to Prevent Heat Loss to Mars Atmosphere