Mars probe MGS does not respond to the signal

The Mars probe Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) no longer answers the signal. NASA researchers have sought to reconnect lost communications for two weeks with the MGS.

The probe was launched on November 7, 1996, 10 years ago, as a record of life expectancy for a Mars probe. The life of MGS has been extended by 2 years compared to the original plan. The ship has provided countless images and data about Mars.

On November 2, mission engineers commanded MGS to change the position of one of the solar panels. The response signaled that the probe was having problems with the motors that directed these panels. Followed by two silent days and one weak signal on November 5, there was no signal at all. A short signal was caught on November 12 and then contact was interrupted again.

MGS may have switched to standby mode or switched to a position where it cannot be contacted. To understand the situation, NASA engineers asked the probe Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) to take a picture of MGS. These two probes fly 100km apart several times a week.

From 1999 to 2001, the MGS vessel mapped the Martian surface. NASA used these data to identify landing locations for two Spirit and Opportunity robots. The introduction of the MGS into orbit in 1997 was a great success for NASA after losing the Mars Observer in 2003.

Mars probe Mars Global Surveyor (Photo: NASA)

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