2003rd

The number 2003 is an integer that follows 2002 and precedes 2004. It is a prime number, meaning it is only divisible by 1 and itself. In the Gregorian calendar, 2003 was a common year starting on a Wednesday. It was the year that the Mars Exploration Rovers Spirit and Opportunity were launched.

In mathematics, 2003 can be part of various sequences or equations. As a prime number, it has significance in number theory. For example, it is the 303rd prime number. Its digits sum to 5 (2+0+0+3=5).

The year 2003 was marked by several notable events. In the United States, the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster investigation concluded, and the No Child Left Behind Act was signed into law. Globally, the Iraq War began in March 2003. Culturally, the film "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" was released and won 11 Academy Awards. The music industry saw the release of popular albums from artists like Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake.

The number 2003 itself does not possess any inherent special properties beyond its primality and its place in the sequence of integers. Its significance is derived from its association with events and concepts occurring in the year it represents.