Hubble's camera goes into safe mode

In summary, the Hubble Space Telescope's Advanced Camera for Surveys has been offline since June 19th, and managers are using other cameras while engineers work to resolve the issue. The cause of the camera going into "safe mode" is still unknown, but it is a precautionary measure to conserve energy.
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neutrino
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http://www.space.com/news/060623_hubble_acs.html

The Hubble Space Telescope's showcase camera has been offline since Monday, June 19.

Managers are scrambling to use the observatory's other cameras as science operations continue.

Meanwhile, engineers have yet to figure out what caused the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) to go into "safe mode," essentially a sleep state that prevents normal operations. But the outlook is bright.
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
Why have a (safe mode) in the first place, surly on and off would do ?
 
  • #3
wolram said:
Why have a (safe mode) in the first place, surly on and off would do ?

Suppose there is a problem with the solar panals and and the batteries don't charge like they are supposed to do. To save energy the camera would techinally go into safe mode. Is this a good explanation?
 
  • #4
wolram said:
Why have a (safe mode) in the first place, surly on and off would do ?
...and why not give the camera a good-humoured personality :wink:
 

Related to Hubble's camera goes into safe mode

1. What does it mean when Hubble's camera goes into safe mode?

Hubble's camera going into safe mode means that it has encountered an issue or anomaly that requires it to shut down certain systems and enter a safe state to prevent further damage.

2. How often does Hubble's camera go into safe mode?

Since its launch in 1990, Hubble's camera has gone into safe mode around 13 times. However, the frequency of safe mode occurrences has decreased since the installation of new instruments and upgrades in 2009.

3. How long does Hubble's camera stay in safe mode?

The duration of Hubble's camera safe mode can vary depending on the severity of the issue. In most cases, the camera can resume normal operations within a few days to a week.

4. Can Hubble's camera still collect data while in safe mode?

No, Hubble's camera is unable to collect data while in safe mode. Its systems are shut down to prevent further damage, and it must be brought back to its normal operational state before resuming scientific observations.

5. What causes Hubble's camera to go into safe mode?

There are various reasons that can cause Hubble's camera to go into safe mode, including technical malfunctions, power supply issues, and cosmic rays. The camera has built-in systems to detect anomalies and automatically enter safe mode to protect itself.

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