Viking 1 was a space probe launched by NASA on August 20, 1975, to explore the planet Mars. It was the first spacecraft to successfully land on Mars, touching down on July 20, 1976. The mission aimed to study the Martian surface, atmosphere, and potential for life. The probe carried a variety of scientific instruments, including cameras and spectrometers, to analyze the Martian soil and rocks. Viking 1 transmitted thousands of images back to Earth, providing valuable data that helped scientists understand the planet's geology and climate. The mission lasted until 1982, far exceeding its original expectations.