Hubble's camera goes into safe mode

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The Hubble Space Telescope's Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) has been in "safe mode" since June 19, halting its normal operations. Engineers are investigating the cause of this issue while utilizing other cameras to continue scientific work. The safe mode is designed to preserve energy and protect the camera from potential damage, particularly in case of solar panel or battery issues. The discussion raises questions about the necessity of safe mode versus simple on/off functionality. Overall, the situation remains under review as teams work to resolve the problem.
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http://www.space.com/news/060623_hubble_acs.html

The Hubble Space Telescope's showcase camera has been offline since Monday, June 19.

Managers are scrambling to use the observatory's other cameras as science operations continue.

Meanwhile, engineers have yet to figure out what caused the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) to go into "safe mode," essentially a sleep state that prevents normal operations. But the outlook is bright.
 
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Why have a (safe mode) in the first place, surly on and off would do ?
 
wolram said:
Why have a (safe mode) in the first place, surly on and off would do ?

Suppose there is a problem with the solar panals and and the batteries don't charge like they are supposed to do. To save energy the camera would techinally go into safe mode. Is this a good explanation?
 
wolram said:
Why have a (safe mode) in the first place, surly on and off would do ?
...and why not give the camera a good-humoured personality :wink:
 

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