Science

Mars Express Surges Into Its Third Decade with Software Upgrade Until 2034

2025-05-18

Author: John Tan

Mission Control Defies Decay: Mars Express Gets a Lifeline

In a remarkable feat of engineering, mission operators at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) have successfully deployed a new software patch for the iconic Mars Express spacecraft, ensuring it can continue its groundbreaking work until at least 2034.

Battling Gear Degeneration: A Dance with Time

The durability of Mars Express hinges on its critical ring laser gyroscope, a vital component for accurate instrument and antenna alignment. However, this crucial gear has been aging, posing a significant challenge for the mission's future.

Innovative Solutions: Tapping into the Stars

To combat the gyroscope's wear and tear, engineers at ESA turned to an ingenious solution: leveraging input from star trackers to replace gyro data. This innovative approach has been operational for about seven years, a crucial adjustment for a spacecraft now celebrating its twenty-first year in orbit.

From Threat to Triumph: Extending the Mission