[time-nuts] Space mission comes to an end becuase of a "computer time tagging" problem

[Mark C. Stephens]

Winders?

-----Original Message-----
From: time-nuts-bounces at febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-bounces at febo.com] On Behalf Of David J Taylor
Sent: Saturday, 21 September 2013 2:51 AM
To: Time-nuts mailing list
Subject: [time-nuts] Space mission comes to an end becuase of a "computer time tagging" problem

NASA's Deep Space Comet Hunter Mission Comes to an end

The news release includes this paragraph:
    "After losing contact with the spacecraft last month, mission controllers spent several weeks trying to uplink commands to reactivate its onboard systems.  Although the exact cause of the loss is not known, analysis has uncovered a potential problem with computer time tagging that could have led to loss of control for Deep Impact's orientation.  That would then affect the positioning of its radio antennas, making communication difficult, as well as its solar arrays, which would in turn prevent the spacecraft from getting power and allow cold temperatures to ruin onboard equipment, essentially freezing its battery and propulsion systems."

Knowing the membership of this group, does anyone have more insight into what the "computer time tagging" problem might be?

Thanks,
David
--
SatSignal Software - Quality software written to your requirements
Web: http://www.satsignal.eu
Email: david-taylor at blueyonder.co.uk 

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