NASA Engineers Resolve Voyager 1 Computer Issue
NASA engineers have completed critical repairs on the Voyager 1 space probe, correcting a fault in one of its computers. The issue, detected in November 2023, disrupted the probe’s ability to send readable science data to Earth.
The faulty memory section in the computer hindered the execution of code crucial for data transmission. To address this, engineers strategically relocated the affected code to a different memory location, preventing damage from the corrupted memory.
The troubleshooting process presented significant challenges, as Voyager 1 is approximately 15 billion miles away, resulting in a nearly two-day time delay between command transmission and response. Engineers meticulously divided the code into smaller sections that could fit into different storage areas and ensured its seamless execution during data transmission.
On April 22, NASA announced the successful completion of the complex code rearrangement. The probe is now being prepared to resume its original mission, transmitting valuable science data back to Earth.
While Voyager 1 underwent repairs, its sister probe, Voyager 2, continues to operate normally.
