NASA satellite CAPSTONE experiences error, is in safe mode

The CAPSTONE satellite is currently on its way to the moon. NASA teams are trying to figure out why the satellite is in safe mode.

NASA is working on various bits of lunar architecture to support missions in the long term. A space station is planned to be built around the moon. The idea is to put the space station into a near rectilinear halo linear orbit, which uses little fuel and would bring the station close to the moon at times. The CAPSTONE satellite was launched on June 28, this year, to test out the theoretical and never-before-used circle.

The satellite needs to perform a series of trajectory correction maneuvers in order to enter the circle. The satellite entered safe mode after an unknown issue caused it to perform its latest maneuver. NASA wrote in an update that there was an issue that put the spaceship in safe mode. The CAPSTONE mission team has a good idea of the status of the spaceship. The mission operations team is working with the Deep Space Network to find a solution to the problem. As available, additional updates will be given.

The CAPSTONE satellite has had two issues set. NASA lost contact with CAPSTONE shortly after launch. After a few days, the satellite's communications were back to normal. The issue was caused by an improper formatted command sent to the satellite and a software fault that did not restart the radio immediately.

Unlike the first issue, the latest one involves safe mode, which is a protective mode that the satellite enters to protect itself from damage.

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