Probes and spacecraft that no longer workalthough they may seem inert objects, they still have considerable value for space science and universe exploration. Even though its main mission has ended, These space relics represent a priceless legacy in the history of conquest of space.
The fate of these now inoperative devices depends on several factors, such as its location, its condition and its scientific value. Some spacecraft are left in orbit, while others are redirected to “graveyard” orbits where they do not pose a danger to future space missions. In some cases, spacecraft are deliberately crashed into the surface of a celestial body to obtain more scientific data.
One of these cases is NASA's InSight robot, that silently landed on the surface of Mars in 2018and which has already stopped working due to the dust buildup on your solar panels. However, his scientific legacy endures, and his story continues to be told thanks to observations from his orbital companion, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.
A motionless but invaluable explorer
Unlike the rovers that travel around the red planet and the probes that orbit it, InSight was designed to remain in a fixed location and study the interior of Mars. Equipped with a seismometer and a drill, the robot managed to detect more than 1,300 Martian earthquakes, providing crucial information about the internal structure of the planet, including the size, composition and seismic activity of the core, mantle and crust.
However, InSight's drill was unable to reach the desired depth due to the unexpected hardness of the Martian soil. Furthermore, the robot's dependence on solar energy turned out to be its Achilles heel. As dust accumulated on its panels, its ability to generate energy decreasedwhich ultimately led to its deactivation at the end of 2022.
An orbital observer takes over
Despite the end of its operational mission, InSight is not completely alone. The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter probe, which has been orbiting Mars for 18 years, has taken images of the robot's landing site to study dust accumulation over time. This information will help scientists better understand the sedimentation rate on Mars and estimate the age of other planetary surface features.
The InSight heritage
While InSight's mission has come to an end, His scientific legacy will continue to inspire future generations of space explorers.. The data collected by the robot has provided an unprecedented view of the interior of Mars, and its story serves as a reminder of the challenges and perseverance that characterize space exploration.
The continued study of the InSight landing site by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter demonstrates the value of collaboration in space science. By combining observations from different platforms, scientists can gain a more complete and nuanced understanding of our neighboring planet.
The InSight story is a reminder that even endings can be new beginnings. Although the robot is no longer operational, its legacy will continue to advance our knowledge of Mars and pave the way for future missions to other worlds.