On this day in space! Aug. 12, 2005: Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter launched

The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter was successfully launched by NASA on August 12, 2005. The launch occurred from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. This marked the beginning of a significant endeavor to study Mars and its environment. The MRO’s primary objective was to investigate Martian geology, climate, and potential evidence of past or present water. Scientists hoped to gain valuable insights into the planet's history through detailed observations made by the orbiter.