Hello Earth! Can you hear me? #WakeUpPhilae
— Philae Lander (@Philae2014) June 14, 2015
Back in January, the ESA’s Philae lander literally went dark, going into hibernation mode to conserve its energy stores. Now, months later, the little lander has woken up as the comet’s orbit passes close to the sun.
While landing on the comet, it bounced into a dark crevice, where its solar panels couldn’t quite get enough exposure to the sun to charge its battery. Before shutting down, though, it was able to send back some information about organic compounds found on the comet. No aliens, however. Alas. Just one little robot and its satellite buddy.
Amusingly, the ESA used Twitter to announce Philae’s awakening. They even had a cute little conversation between… well, themselves.
.@Philae2014 Need to check you’re fit, healthy and warm enough first @philae2014! Take it easy for now :)
— ESA Rosetta Mission (@ESA_Rosetta) June 14, 2015
It’s good to have you back, Philae. Next time don’t go chasing shadowy outcroppings. Please stick to the bright and sunny surfaces you’re used to.
(via Business Insider)
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