GRAIL A

GRAIL A is no longer on orbit
GRAIL A is classified as:

Space & Earth Science
Education

NORAD ID: 37801

Int'l Code: 2011-046A

Launch date: September 10, 2011
Source: United States (US)
Launch site: AIR FORCE EASTERN TEST RANGE (AFETR)
Decay date: 2012-12-17

By precisely measuring the distance between GRAIL A and GRAIL B as they orbit the moon—and thus the subtle effects of the moon's gravity as they sail over visible and sub-surface geologic structures—scientists will be able to determine the nature of the moon's enigmatic core and perhaps confirm or refute theories about how the moon formed some 4.5 billion years ago. It also may help inspire school kids to take more of an interest in science. Each satellite is equipped with four cameras sponsored by former shuttle astronaut Sally Ride's science education company that can be used by students around the world to photograph the lunar surface.