- #1
- 5,486
- 4,305
Mars Probe gets Windows 98 Update, after 19 years
In summary, the agency said the upgrade will enable the spacecraft to view Mars and its moon Phobos with better levels of detail.
- #2
Ibix
Science Advisor
- 12,567
- 14,687
I couldn't quite work out what they were doing with the update. It implied they were freeing up space for data, which sounds like the opposite of what Windows updates usually do. Presumably they've chopped out unnecessary stuff...? I hope they left Minesweeper so the probe has something to do while it's uploading data.
- #3
paige turner
- 9
- 3
it's watching porn
- #4
Vanadium 50
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Education Advisor
2023 Award
- 35,005
- 21,683
Could have been worse.
- #5
OCR
- 994
- 934
paige turner said:
Well, that should increase the extension of its probe function a bit longer. . . .
.
- #6
collinsmark
Homework Helper
Gold Member
- 3,411
- 2,951
This has made headlines in pop-sci articles lately. But (without researching it too much), I'm pretty sure the orbiter was not running Windows 98.
Rather the software running the probe was originally developed years ago using a Windows 98 based environment.
I think the confusion comes from ESA press release, where a quote may have been misinterpreted/taken out of context. "... MARSIS software was originally designed over 20 years ago, using a development environment based on Microsoft Windows 98!”
https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Suppor...upgrade_for_19-year-old_martian_water-spotter
That's not quite the same thing as the orbiter actually running Windows 98.
Rather the software running the probe was originally developed years ago using a Windows 98 based environment.
I think the confusion comes from ESA press release, where a quote may have been misinterpreted/taken out of context. "... MARSIS software was originally designed over 20 years ago, using a development environment based on Microsoft Windows 98!”
https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Suppor...upgrade_for_19-year-old_martian_water-spotter
That's not quite the same thing as the orbiter actually running Windows 98.
- #7
Ibix
Science Advisor
- 12,567
- 14,687
And makes a lot more sense!collinsmark said:
FAQ: Mars Probe gets Windows 98 Update, after 19 years
What is the significance of a Mars Probe getting a Windows 98 update after 19 years?
The significance of this update is that it marks the first time in 19 years that the Mars Probe's software has been updated. This will allow the probe to continue functioning and collecting valuable data from the red planet.
Why did it take 19 years for the Mars Probe to receive a software update?
The Mars Probe was launched in 1999 and was equipped with Windows 98 as its operating system. At the time, this was the most advanced software available. However, as technology has advanced, the probe's software became outdated and needed to be updated to continue functioning effectively.
How will the Windows 98 update benefit the Mars Probe's mission?
The Windows 98 update will allow the Mars Probe to run more efficiently and effectively, improving its ability to collect and transmit data from Mars. It will also provide the probe with new capabilities and features that were not available with the outdated software.
Will the update affect the Mars Probe's current operations?
Yes, the update will require the Mars Probe to temporarily shut down while the new software is installed and tested. However, once the update is complete, the probe will be able to resume its mission with improved functionality.
Are there any risks associated with updating the Mars Probe's software?
As with any software update, there is always a risk of potential complications or errors. However, extensive testing and precautions are taken to minimize these risks and ensure the successful installation of the new software on the Mars Probe.