NASA has officially declared the MAVEN spacecraft lost, an orbiter that had been analyzing the Martian atmosphere since 2014. An unexpected spin depleted its batteries, leaving it inoperative. This directly affects communication with the rovers on the surface, causing delays in the transmission of scientific data and commands.
Technical failure: a spin that left the orbiter silent 🛰️
The MAVEN probe lost its usual orientation during a routine maneuver. As it spun, its solar panels stopped pointing at the Sun, draining the batteries within hours. Without power, the radio system went offline. NASA attempted to re-establish contact using emergency signals, but without success. This failure disrupts the link between Earth and the rovers, which depend on MAVEN as a relay.
Mars without WiFi: the rovers are now sightseeing without GPS 🚀
The rovers on Mars have lost their space messenger. Now, when they send a selfie, it takes hours to reach Earth. Something like having a fried router in the middle of the desert. NASA asks for patience: the data will arrive, but with a delay. Meanwhile, the rovers take the opportunity to do some Martian sightseeing without bothering anyone.