Erik Szewczyk Apr 16, 2023
65dBnoise

#NASA's #Curiosity rover (on Mars), got a major software update, the first one since 2016. 180 changes:
https://mars.nasa.gov/news/9378/nasas-curiosity-mars-rover-gets-a-major-software-upgrade/

Big changes:
• Thinking while driving: similar to #Perseverance's AutoNav, albeit without the dedicated hardware
• Less steering, depending on rocks under the wheels: a previously rejected "nice to have" feature, now implemented
• Easier software patches
• More efficient and accurate robotic arm and masthead pointing

Image by JPL-Caltech/MSSS

#MSL #Solarocks #Space

NASA's Curiosity Mars Rover Gets a Major Software Upgrade

The update brings loads of improvements, the most significant being new driving capabilities.

NASA Mars Exploration
Apr 16, 2023 at 7:14amWeb
Show threadAcesabeApr 16, 2023
@65dBnoise @glynmoody wow, I wouldn't want to be the engineer responsible for applying that upgrade! I presume there is some failsafe in case of upgrade borkage?
Show thread65dBnoiseApr 16, 2023

@acesabe @glynmoody
I'm sure there is, although I can't point to a reference right now. As for the sentiment, here is a quote from NASA's post:

"As with any major software update, there’s a sense of relief to see it working as designed", Denison said.

“The idea of hitting the install button was a little scary,” he added. “Despite all our testing, we never know exactly what will happen until the software is up there.”

Show threadVacamaApr 16, 2023
@65dBnoise Eentje voor de volgende @nerdlandbe
Show threadFlorian SchmidtApr 16, 2023
@65dBnoise
This is what I call "customer service"! Seriously, what hardware on planet Earth would get
- a major software update
- after 7 years
- for a series with only 1 delivered unit
- over the air / from 200.000.000km away?
- for free?
Show thread65dBnoiseApr 16, 2023
@schmidt_fu 😀 👍 !
Except for the "for free". I presume the updates are included in the operational costs 🤓
Show threadFlorian SchmidtApr 16, 2023
@65dBnoise
Good Point! 😅