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NASA Loses Contact with Ingenuity Mars Helicopter for Six Days
NASA’s Ingenuity Mars helicopter was temporarily out of contact for just under six days following its 49th flight. While NASA was initially unconcerned because of Perseverance rover’s location, concern grew when the helicopter was still uncontactable after Perseverance moved.
Radio Problemas
Before Ingenuity lost contact, it had been in a nighttime survival mode that made daily contact hard. However, after landing in the shadow of a rocky outcrop and being at a distance from the Perseverance rover, Ingenuity’s poor telecom performance caused concern. However, it was the discovery of a simple acknowledgement of receipt of a signal on day 761 that caused the most concern, as Ingenuity had never before experienced a total radio blackout in over 700 sols of operation.
Challenges
After determining that a separating ridge was causing interference, the helicopter was left stranded while the Perseverance rover continued to move. The narrow channels of the Jezero delta presented a problem for Ingenuity, whose job is to scout ahead of the rover. And while NASA tried to get Ingenuity moving again, the rover needed to stay ahead of it.
Ingenuity Prevails
Despite the loss of contact and several challenges, Ingenuity was able to execute its 50th flight, achieving an altitude record of 18 meters. The team breathed a sigh of relief as telemetry for the successful flight was received. However, the team knows that there are still anxious days ahead.
Conclusion
Ingenuity has already exceeded expectations by flying 50 times – far beyond the initial expectations of just five flights. The team behind the Mars helicopter is dedicated to overcoming challenges and keeping Ingenuity in operation for as long as possible.
FAQs
What caused Ingenuity to lose contact?
Ingenuity lost contact after its 49th flight due to its poor telecom performance due to drifting in and out of nighttime survival mode and finding a location without solar power to recharge its battery.
What was the cause of the six-day blackout?
The cause of the six-day blackout was determined to be a ridge that was blocking radio communication between Ingenuity and Perseverance. Additionally, Perseverance’s low-mounted helicopter base station antenna interfered with communication.
What challenges did NASA face in getting Ingenuity airborne again?
NASA faced several challenges, including keeping Ingenuity ahead of Perseverance while moving through the narrow channels of the Jezero delta. Additionally, poor telecom performance of Ingenuity and interference caused further issues.
How many times has Ingenuity flown so far?
As of the time of writing, Ingenuity has flown 50 times. This is far beyond the initial expectations of only 5 flights.
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