Mission "Volatiles and Climate History" Launch The Mars Polar Lander was launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS) Space Launch Complex 17 (SLC-17) on January 3, 1999. Launch Vehicle McDonnell Douglas Delta II 7425. The upper stage consists of a spin stabilized Star 48 with a Nutation Control System and a yo-yo despin device. Spacecraft Mass 615 kg MVACS Science Payload -Meteorological Package (MET) -Surface Stereo Imager (SSI) -Robotic Arm (RA) / Robotic Arm Camera (RAC) -Thermal and Evolved Gas Analyzer (TEGA) Mission Timeline: January 03, 1999: Launch December 03, 1999: Mars Landing February 29, 2000: End of Primary Mission Logos: -MVACS Logo -Mars Surveyor Mission Logo Frequently Asked Questions