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Mars 1, Japan 0

Posted by michael on from the explosive-space-modulator dept.

davecl writes "Looks like Mars Space Defence may have claimed another satellite. BBC News Online is reporting that the Japanese probe Nozomi, which has already had plenty of troubles, has been knocked out by a solar flare. The scientists in charge say they expect the on board computer to 'repair itself', so it may live to fight another day. A salutary warning for those planning manned missions to Mars."

3 of 35 comments (clear)

  1. Slow reboot by bscott · · Score: 4, Funny

    The article says the craft "may repair itself", but that it could take up to six months. I've seen some slow reboots in my time, but even WindowsNT on a '486 only takes a couple of weeks... seriously, what could take that long, when it comes to an automatic function on a computer? Is it just a timeout put in for safety?

    --
    Perfectly Normal Industries
    1. Re:Slow reboot by lindsley · · Score: 2, Funny

      Since it's a problem with the communication, it's a telco problem. Six months is the soonest a technician could get out there ...

  2. CONSPIRASY THEORY by inspectractor · · Score: 2, Funny

    LOL Defense, or how about this: A country (possibly U.S.) has found something on mars and does not want anyone else to find out, hence "disabling" all unwanted vessels to that planet. Just a ridiculous theory by me, but wouldn't that be interesting if true?