GALLERYSpacecraft
Conceptual image of insertion into orbit around Venus (2015)
A conceptual image of Akatsuki attempting to reenter orbit around Venus in December 7, 2015 The four reaction control system (RCS) thrusters are engaged.
Akatsuki bound for Venus (conceptual image)
A conceptual image of Akatsuki traveling forward to enter orbit around Venus.
Conceptual image of Akatsuki having reached Venus and using reverse thrust to enter orbit around Venus (by Akihiro Ikeshita)
Imaginary picture of nightside patterns visible in infrared band is superimposed on Venus.
Akatsuki: surveying lightning emission in Venus' sea of clouds and observing cloud layers on the horizon (by Akihiro Ikeshita)
A conceptual image of Akatsuki observing cloud layers with lightning.
Observational instruments (by Akihiro Ikeshita)
The observational instruments installed on Akatsuki. From above, lightning (visible light), cloud temperature distribution (long-wave infrared), chemical substance at cloud tos (ultraviolet), ground surface (near infrared), and the lower atmosphere (near infrared).