Here’s how NASA fixed the problem with solar panels

It was hardly that NASA’s Lucy probe Launched to explore Jupiter asteroids, a problem arose. one of the Solar Panels The tube cannot be fully deployed. A rope that was supposed to open the solar system was suspended in a interlocking coil The operation was blocked.

After months of simulations and testing, the unit can now be at least partially deployed. After much deliberation, NASA scientists decided to use a photoelectric sail in total 7 attempts To stretch more in May and June.

The solar panels are almost fully extended

You can put both Main and reserve engine Tighten the interlocking rope at the same time. Despite all efforts, the two motors, the solar module, did not work Explode, Explode Allow. According to NASA estimates, the solar complex is located between 353 and 357 degrees Open – from 360 thousand possible.

The circular module is now stable enough for follow-up missions, like NASA in one send Announces. Lucy is supposed to get her first car in 2025 Trojansalso called asteroids Jupiter.

12 years planned mission

If the solar module cannot be fully extended, it will be troublesome for everyone 12 year mission It was, but it’s not a disaster. Photovoltaic panels have so far been able to save 90 percent of their production.

Lucy is the first probe to study Trojans on Jupiter. Asteroids, which are in front and behind the gas planet, are witnesses to planet formation.