NASA Perseveres in Reconnecting with MAVEN Spacecraft
The MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution) spacecraft has encountered challenges in communication. NASA’s mission team, in collaboration with the Deep Space Network, is actively engaged in recovery efforts after losing contact with MAVEN on December 6.
Attempts to re-establish communication have not yet yielded results. The spacecraft has not transmitted telemetry since December 4. However, a brief signal fragment was obtained from December 6 during a radio science campaign. This data indicates MAVEN was rotating unexpectedly when it re-emerged from behind Mars.
Analyzing MAVEN’s Communication Challenges
The frequency of the tracking signal suggests a potential change in MAVEN’s orbital trajectory. The mission team is diligently analyzing tracking data to identify possible scenarios that led to the communication loss.
- Contact lost: December 6
- Last telemetry received: December 4
- Signal fragment analysis: Indicates unexpected rotation
Impact on Mars Rover Operations
NASA is also addressing the implications of the MAVEN communication issue on surface operations for its Perseverance and Curiosity rovers. Communications with the surface are facilitated by four orbiters, including MAVEN. The remaining operational orbiters are:
- Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter
- Mars Odyssey
- ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter
To ensure the continuation of scientific activities, NASA is arranging additional communication passes from these orbiters over the next two weeks. The teams for Perseverance and Curiosity are adjusting their daily operations to maintain their science missions effectively.
Next Steps for MAVEN
As recovery efforts progress, the NASA team remains committed to resolving the MAVEN communication anomaly. The ongoing analysis and collaboration with other orbiters will be crucial in supporting both the MAVEN mission and the surface operations of the Mars rovers.
