Why Is Mercury So Difficult for Spacecraft to Visit?

Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun, and its proximity to this powerful celestial body makes it an extremely challenging destination for spacecraft to visit. The intense heat and radiation emanating from the Sun subject spacecraft to extreme conditions, requiring special materials and shielding to withstand these harsh elements. Additionally, Mercury's weak gravitational pull makes it difficult for spacecraft to enter and remain in orbit, necessitating precise maneuvers and careful planning to avoid being ejected by the planet's weak gravitational field. These factors, coupled with the long travel time to Mercury, make it a daunting target for space exploration missions.