Mars rover sidelined again

Curiosity hit by second computer glitch this month

The Associated Press

Posted: Mar 18, 2013 2:25 PM ET

Last Updated: Mar 19, 2013 7:39 AM ET

Curiosity, seen here in a multi-exposure self-portrait, has been sidelined by computer problems twice this month. (NASA, JPL/Associated Press)

Another problem is preventing the Mars rover Curiosity from resuming its science experiments.

The mission's chief scientist said Monday the rover went into safe mode again over the weekend because of a computer file error. In safe mode, activities are on hold but the rover remains in contact with Earth.

Curiosity was sidelined earlier this month after a problem with its computer memory. The team had hoped to restart experiments this week when the new problem cropped up.

Since arriving at Gale Crater last year, Curiosity drilled into its first rock and determined the ancient environment could have supported primitive life. Scientists have planned more drilling before starting the long journey toward a mountain.

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