Michael Meyer, about Phoenix and MSL |
Michael Meyer, about Phoenix and MSL |
Sep 25 2006, 10:01 AM
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Member Group: Members Posts: 153 Joined: 11-December 04 Member No.: 120 |
http://www.marsdaily.com/reports/Managing_...ssions_999.html
Michael Meyer, lead scientist for NASA's Mars Exploration Program, spoke at the recent Viking anniversary celebration. One remarkable quote: "Considering how long the Spirit and Opportunity rovers have lasted beyond their design lifetimes, it almost boggles the mind to think how long MSL could last. It may be there to greet the astronauts when they arrive on Mars." That's what I call optimism. I always thought that the lifespan of an RTG was pretty predictable and that in case of MSL it lasted for about 2 earth years. Maybe he's talking about the solar array powered version? |
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Jun 23 2007, 08:12 PM
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Merciless Robot Group: Admin Posts: 8785 Joined: 8-December 05 From: Los Angeles Member No.: 602 |
Well, the good thing, as Ed observed, is that UMSF RTGs are obviously drifting off the radar screens of these groups: the sky hasn't fallen, nor does such an event seem likely based on past performance. The entire issue is no longer a plausible casus bellum for them, and therefore also no longer a focus item except in token terms; good news.
Let's keep it that way...low visibilty has many advantages! -------------------- A few will take this knowledge and use this power of a dream realized as a force for change, an impetus for further discovery to make less ancient dreams real.
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