The JUICE (JUpiter ICy moons Explorer) mission experienced a serious communication breakdown on July 16, but thanks to the quick response of the Mission Control Center in Darmstadt, Germany, and Airbus specialists, the problem was quickly resolved. The issue began when the ESA’s space communications antenna failed to establish contact with JUICE at the scheduled time.
Experts suspected a malfunction in the communication subsystem, citing incorrect antenna configuration or transmitter problems. However, further analysis revealed that the cause was a software error, which had caused the communication amplifier to shut down.
To resolve the issue, engineers opted for a “blind” command approach, sending signals into space to test JUICE’s reception capabilities. After six attempts, the seventh signal was successful, and JUICE redirected its antenna towards Earth. Communication was restored, and the spacecraft was found to be in excellent condition with no system failures.
The mission team could now focus on the Venus flyby scheduled for August 31, which will enable JUICE to increase its orbital velocity without using fuel. After meeting Venus, JUICE will head towards Earth, followed by a series of gravity assist maneuvers that will ultimately send it toward Jupiter’s orbit in 2031.
The JUICE mission aims to study Jupiter’s icy moons and their potential subsurface oceans, making it one of the most exciting scientific endeavors in recent years.
Source: https://universemagazine.com/en/darmstadt-we-have-a-problem-esa-reports-on-the-rescue-of-the-juice-mission