Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) was launched by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) is a NASA mission that was launched on June 18, 2009, with the primary objective of mapping the surface of the Moon and collecting data to enable future human missions to the Moon.

NASA's Role in Space Exploration:
NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, is the United States' civilian space agency. It was established in 1958 with the goal of advancing space exploration and scientific research. NASA is responsible for a wide range of missions and projects, including human spaceflight, robotic exploration, and Earth observation.

LRO Mission:
The LRO mission is part of NASA's broader strategy to explore the Moon and prepare for future human missions. The spacecraft carries a suite of instruments that enable it to collect high-resolution images and topographic data of the lunar surface. It also measures the radiation environment and searches for potential resources that could support future human exploration.

Objectives of LRO Mission:
The LRO mission has several objectives, including:

1. Mapping the lunar surface: LRO is equipped with cameras and sensors that allow it to capture detailed images and create high-resolution maps of the Moon's surface. This data helps scientists better understand the Moon's geology and identify potential landing sites for future missions.

2. Studying the Moon's environment: LRO measures the radiation environment around the Moon, which is crucial for understanding the potential risks to astronauts on future missions. It also collects data on the Moon's temperature, lighting conditions, and other environmental factors.

3. Identifying potential resources: LRO searches for evidence of water ice and other resources that could be used by future human missions. These resources could be crucial for sustaining astronauts during extended stays on the Moon.

4. Supporting future missions: The data collected by LRO is used to support the planning and design of future human missions to the Moon. It provides valuable information about the lunar surface, potential hazards, and possible landing sites.

Conclusion:
The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) was launched by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as part of their efforts to explore the Moon and prepare for future human missions. The LRO mission has been instrumental in mapping the lunar surface, studying the Moon's environment, identifying potential resources, and supporting the planning of future missions.