On this day in space! Sept. 4, 1962: NASA's Mariner 2 spacecrafts performs the 1st-ever maneuver in deep space so it could reach Venus

On September 4th, 1962, NASA’s Mariner 2 spacecraft achieved a historic milestone by executing the initial rocket maneuver conducted during an interplanetary trajectory. The mission utilized a brief course correction, lasting approximately nine minutes and covering a distance of roughly 300 feet. This critical adjustment enabled Mariner 2 to successfully intercept its target: Venus. Scientists at NASA meticulously planned this maneuver to ensure accurate arrival at the planet. The successful execution marked a pivotal moment in deep space exploration and paved the way for future missions.