VEGA - First results from Venus

A study of the solid surface and atmosphere of Venus by the lander and balloon probes of the Soviet Union's Vega 1 and 2 is presented. The measurement of wind velocities at the equator by analyzing the Doppler shift of radio signals broadcast from the ten-foot diameter helium-filled balloons is discussed. Vega 1 relayed information about the surface near the Venus equator, at 7.2 deg N, 177.8 deg E for 20 minutes; the early deployment of the mechanized drill is examined. Vega 2 landed 1000 miles to the south and slightly east, at 6.45 deg S and 181.08 deg E; thirty-six minutes of data and a surface sample were collected. Explanations for the unusually smooth surface of this elevated region are provided.