The correct answer is option 'D' - National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) is a NASA mission that was launched on June 18, 2009. It is a robotic spacecraft specifically designed to explore the Moon and gather valuable data about its surface, environment, and resources. The mission aims to provide detailed information that can be used for future lunar exploration and potentially pave the way for human missions to the Moon.

Key Points:
- Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) was launched by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
- It was launched on June 18, 2009.
- LRO is a robotic spacecraft designed to explore the Moon and gather data.
- The mission aims to provide detailed information for future lunar exploration and potential human missions to the Moon.

What is Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO)?

The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) is a sophisticated spacecraft equipped with a suite of scientific instruments. These instruments allow it to study various aspects of the Moon, including its topography, temperature, radiation levels, mineralogy, and presence of water ice. LRO also carries cameras that capture high-resolution images of the lunar surface, providing scientists with detailed maps and information about the Moon's geology and potential landing sites.

Why was Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) launched?

The primary objective of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission is to gather data and information that can be used for future lunar exploration and potential human missions to the Moon. Some of the specific goals of the mission include:

1. Mapping the Moon's surface: LRO's instruments provide detailed topographic maps of the lunar surface, allowing scientists to better understand its geology and identify potential landing sites for future missions.

2. Investigating the Moon's resources: LRO studies the distribution of water ice on the Moon, which could potentially be used as a resource for future human missions. Understanding the availability and location of water ice is crucial for planning long-duration missions to the Moon.

3. Studying the lunar environment: LRO collects data on the Moon's radiation environment, temperature variations, and other factors that could impact future missions. This information helps in designing spacecraft and protecting astronauts during lunar missions.

4. Observing lunar phenomena: LRO's instruments allow scientists to observe and study various lunar phenomena, such as impacts from meteoroids, lunar dust dynamics, and the occurrence of transient events like moonquakes.

In conclusion, the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) was launched by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) with the objective of gathering data and information about the Moon. Through its sophisticated instruments, LRO provides valuable insights into the lunar surface, environment, and potential resources. This data is crucial for future lunar exploration and supports the planning of human missions to the Moon.