The delayed Mars Global Surveyor has finally reached the right orbit. Last
week the engines pulled the spacecraft into a roughly circular orbit 367
kilometres above the surface of Mars. The satellite used the drag of the thin
atmosphere against its solar panels to bring it in closer to Mars. “It’s a year
later than we anticipated,” says Glenn Cunningham, the manager of NASA’s Mars
Surveyor Operations Project. The surveyor will soon begin mapping the planet’s
surface.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Physics
Record-breaking, fast-spinning magnet could help uncover new physics
News
Environment
An unexpected feedback loop may be driving mega heatwaves
News
91ɫÇéƬ
Less than 4 minutes of vigorous exercise a day could halve your dementia risk
News
91ɫÇéƬ
Parkinson’s may be driven by ‘vicious cycle’ that disrupts brain waste drainage
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles