Mars Rovers Threatened By Dust Storms

mrcgran writes "Space.com is reporting a new potentially deadly weather condition threatening the Mars rovers: 'The first and largest dusty squall has reduced direct sunlight to Mars' surface by nearly 99 percent, an unprecedented threat for the solar-powered rovers. If the storm keeps up and thickens with even more dust, officials fear the rovers' batteries may empty and silence the robotic explorers forever. "This thing has been breaking records the past few days. The sun is 100 times fainter than normal. We're hoping for a big break in the storm soon, but that's just a hope." '"

Comments

Re:Really?

[Rakshasa Taisab]

Why don't you apply for a job there then, I'm sure they could use your excellent intellect in the future.

I'm greatly looking forward to seeing your solution for keeping vital components at acceptable temperatures without any power.

Re:Why Solar Power Only?

[Nutria]

Bad design is an issue here; relying on Solar Power only is foolish, especially when not on Earth. Martian conditions could change at any time, and as we know little about Mars and the climate and cover on the surface, there should be another power source. All space craft and rovers should keep a backup supply of power, in some kind of extra battery. As it is charging, the extra battery should be charged first, used last. When power is low, a sort of survival mode should be entered, and escaped at sun hit. At the moment, that is what the rover lacks.

The design compromises of the rovers were governed by

1. the largest amount mass that the Delta 2 rocket could accelerate to the proper velocity, and
   
2. the volume of the capsule atop said rocket.

So, next time you want to attack something about which you know squat, lock yourself in your parents' basement, stop reading Slashdot and actually learn something for a change.