NOAA’s JPSS-2 satellite is now in Sun acquisition mode (initial operations mode) with the solar array fully deployed. The operations team will continue to evaluate an earlier solar array deployment issue, but at this time, the satellite is healthy and operating as expected. The team has resumed normal activities for the JPSS-2 mission.
Update on JPSS-2 Solar Array Status
Mission managers for NOAA’s JPSS-2 are working to deploy the satellite’s solar array. The satellite has adequate power to operate while teams work to deploy the array. This indicates that one of the four solar panels is currently exposed to the Sun.
LOFTID Team Retrieves Backup Data Recorder
The LOFTID team successfully retrieved the mission’s ejectable data module from the Pacific Ocean on Thursday morning. The data module resembles a large lemon and holds a backup copy of the data recorded during LOFTID’s demonstration. Another copy of the data is stored aboard the heat shield itself, which was already recovered by the team.
The recovery vessel will now make its way back to port. The LOFTID team will analyze the recorded data and inspect the heat shield to assess how the technology performed. Additional updates will be provided as available.
JPSS-2 In Safe and Stable Configuration
Mission managers for NOAA’s JPSS-2 confirm the satellite has acquired signal and is receiving and responding to commands. The satellite is currently power positive (getting electricity) and in a safe and stable configuration while teams assess the status of the solar array.
LOFTID Heat Shield Recovered, Aboard Boat
Team members successfully retrieved the LOFTID heat shield from the Pacific Ocean on Thursday morning. With the heat shield on board, the recovery vessel will next head to retrieve LOFTID’s ejectable data module, which contains a backup of the demonstration data that is also stored on the heat shield.
LOFTID Recovery Underway
LOFTID landed close to the recovery ship. After assessing the situation, the crew aboard the Kahana-II have begun preparation for recovery operations, which will bring LOFTID aboard the vessel. NASA will post updates on the recovery process and the results of the demonstration as more information becomes available.
Team Continues to Monitor Telemetry Data
At this time, the team has not yet received data to confirm solar array deployment. There may not be an issue, but we’re monitoring closely as more telemetry data becomes available.
LOFTID Splashdown Confirmed
The LOFTID team has visually confirmed the heat shield’s splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. Splashdown occurred a few minutes later than originally thought based on the expected mission timeline.
Additional updates will be provided over the next few days, as available.
Splashdown! LOFTID Set for Retrieval in the Pacific
LOFTID has splashed down in the Pacific Ocean hundreds of miles off the coast of Hawaii. Once the aeroshell’s location is determined, the recovery boat will head towards the aeroshell for attempted retrieval. Following retrieval, the team will recover the ejectable data recorder.
Additional updates will be provided over the next few days, as available.
LOFTID’s Parachutes Have Deployed
Teams confirmed the ejectable data recorder jettisoned and have received GPS data on its location. LOFTID’s parachutes are expected to have deployed, preparing LOFTID for splashdown in less than 10 minutes.