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

[Rob Kimberley]

David,

The satellite has probably got a Rb as its clock (hopefully more than one).
All I can imagine is that there has been a major clock failure of some sort,
and everything is in free run and unable to sync up with ground.

Thoughts?

Rob

-----Original Message-----
From: time-nuts-bounces at febo.com [mailto:time-nuts-bounces at febo.com] On
Behalf Of David J Taylor
Sent: 20 September 2013 17:51
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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