CONTOUR has a Lunoo score of 3.10/10. This score is based on AI-powered analysis of category fit, feature coverage, pricing signals, public reception, and recency.

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CONTOUR

3.10

Poor

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description CONTOUR Overview

CONTOUR (Comet Nucleus Tour) was a NASA Discovery-program spacecraft launched on a Delta II rocket in July 2002 to make close flybys of comet nuclei, starting with comet Encke in 2003 and Schwassmann–Wachmann 3 in 2006. On 15 August 2002, during the burn of its solid-fuel rocket motor intended to send it out of Earth orbit, contact was lost and the craft apparently broke apart; telescopes later imaged fragments along its predicted path. A NASA investigation pointed to the motor's design and testing as the likely cause of the failure.

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How good is CONTOUR?

CONTOUR scores 3.10/10 (Poor) on Lunoo, making it rated in the Spacecraft category. Lost after departure burn with no comet science return, widely viewed as a mission failure.

What are the best alternatives to CONTOUR?

See our alternatives page for CONTOUR for a ranked list with scores. Top alternatives include: ISEE-3 / ICE, ACE (Advanced Composition Explorer), STEREO-A.

How does CONTOUR compare to ISEE-3 / ICE?

See our detailed comparison of CONTOUR vs ISEE-3 / ICE with scores, features, and an AI-powered verdict.

Is CONTOUR worth it in 2026?

With a score of 3.10/10, CONTOUR is a solid option in Spacecraft. See all Spacecraft ranked.

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