Preliminary telemetry data prior to the loss of contact, combined with ground-based radar observations from March 2, suggest that Lunar Trailblazer is in a low-power state and spinning slowly. Mission controllers are actively monitoring for any signals, hoping that a shift in the spacecraft's orientation will allow its solar panels to receive more sunlight, thereby increasing power output and enabling renewed communication.
NASA's Deep Space Network has been continuously monitoring for signals from the spacecraft, while ground-based observatories assist in determining its orientation and status.
The current situation has prevented the planned post-launch trajectory correction maneuvers (TCMs), which are small thruster operations designed to refine the spacecraft's trajectory. These adjustments, along with future TCMs, were intended to position Lunar Trailblazer into its designated lunar science orbit. In response to the ongoing communication challenges, the team is developing alternative TCM strategies that could still allow the spacecraft to enter lunar orbit and complete portions of its science mission if contact is re-established.
"The Lunar Trailblazer team has been working around the clock to re-establish communications with the spacecraft," said Nicky Fox, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. "NASA sends up high-risk, high-reward missions like Lunar Trailblazer to do incredible science at a lower cost, and the team truly encapsulates the NASA innovative spirit-if anyone can bring Lunar Trailblazer back, it is them."
Lunar Trailblazer was developed as part of NASA's Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration (SIMPLEx) program, which funds low-cost planetary science missions that ride-share with primary spacecraft. By design, SIMPLEx missions accept a higher level of risk in exchange for lower costs and streamlined oversight. This approach enables NASA to conduct innovative, targeted scientific investigations while testing novel mission methodologies.
Related Links
Lunar Trailblazer at Caltech's
Mars News and Information at MarsDaily.com
Lunar Dreams and more
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
