The staging of Philae, an operation full of emotions

2014/11/12 Galarraga Aiestaran, Ana - Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Astrofisika
• Astronautika
• Astronomia

It has been a great day for ESA and also for scientists and scientists. The most exciting moments begin at 9:35 in the morning, when it is confirmed that the Philae vehicle has started the access road to comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimen, released from the Rosett spacecraft. As they calculated, it took seven hours to reach the surface of the comet, while taking pictures.

Direct tracking from the ESA operations center has allowed everyone to see what was going on. One of the most emotional moments has been that of the first photo of Phila.

However, it has been time to say that the most emotional has landed. The cameras have demonstrated the nervousness and concern they have experienced in the operations center. In addition, the study conducted on the eve found an error in the anchor system of Philae. Consequently, the probability of landing success decreased from 75% to 50%.

At five in the afternoon it is announced that the landing operation has gone well. The ESA operations center welcomed the news with applause and satisfaction, and its leaders expressed their congratulations and gratitude. Among other things, they have stated that it has been "the result of international collaboration" and have repeatedly mentioned the word "historical".

Minutes later, however, they warn that the anchor system has failed. Therefore, the surface of the comet Philae has been glued, but it is only fastened by screws. Engineers are studying what has happened, looking for a solution.

Rosetta will continue its functions. Ander Martínez de Albeniz is one of the engineers competing on the Rosetta route, according to him, it was a "long day". He was responsible for emergency commands and fortunately did not have to work. "for our part [by Rosetta] things have gone very well."