Lander, who settled on a comet, “asleep” for lack of energy. But … – Gazeta.pl

Philae lander, Rosetta, as the first terrestrial spacecraft landed on a comet. Due to problems with the landing is located most of the time in the shadow of the high rise to the surface of the comet. Therefore, the solar cells do not receive enough energy from the sun, and after just one day run out. All instruments and systems, machines are currently disabled – informs the European Space Agency.

The lander could send invaluable data

Before Philae fell asleep – and it can be quite long – but he managed to do it, which they hoped researchers from the Rosetta mission. Sent to Earth the results of the research. But little lacking, and even that would not work.

10.58 Polish time Rosetta, which is a relay between Philae and mission control on Earth lost contact with the lander. At the time, scientists knew that Philae works – and drains the batteries. About 23.19 Polish time managed to establish communication. The signal quickly stabilized and until 1.36 lądownikowi managed to transfer all the collected data, including those with specialized testing equipment, which had on board.

– advised very well in difficult conditions – the machine complimented her work supervisor Stephen Ulamec the European Space Agency.

What’s next for the lander and the Rosetta mission?

From the moment when the lander was silent, it is not possible with any contact – until the solar equipment is not scored enough sunlight to provide power to the system. Scientists hope that the changes we were able to perform shortly before power: pose correction panels 35 degrees and raise them about 4 cm – make in the future, when the comet approaches the Sun, the lander wakes up.

The nearest window communication between Earth and Rosetta is just today – on Saturday. The probe will listen for a signal from the lander. It will do so every time when its location in orbit around the comet will give a chance for communication.

Rosetta mission will continue, even if you already Philae will not work. The main spacecraft, orbiting comet, will be accompanied by a trip through the solar system.

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