#NASA's #Curiosity rover (on Mars), got a major software update, the first one since 2016. 180 changes:
https://mars.nasa.gov/news/9378/nasas-curiosity-mars-rover-gets-a-major-software-upgrade/
Big changes:
• Thinking while driving: similar to #Perseverance's AutoNav, albeit without the dedicated hardware
• Less steering, depending on rocks under the wheels: a previously rejected "nice to have" feature, now implemented
• Easier software patches
• More efficient and accurate robotic arm and masthead pointing
Image by JPL-Caltech/MSSS
@65dBnoise wonderful, thanks!
@65dBnoise @glynmoody wow, I wouldn't want to be the engineer responsible for applying that upgrade! I presume there is some failsafe in case of upgrade borkage?
@acesabe @glynmoody
I'm sure there is, although I can't point to a reference right now. As for the sentiment, here is a quote from NASA's post:
"As with any major software update, there’s a sense of relief to see it working as designed", Denison said.
“The idea of hitting the install button was a little scary,” he added. “Despite all our testing, we never know exactly what will happen until the software is up there.”
@65dBnoise Eentje voor de volgende @nerdlandbe
@65dBnoise
This is what I call "customer service"! Seriously, what hardware on planet Earth would get
- a major software update
- after 7 years
- for a series with only 1 delivered unit
- over the air / from 200.000.000km away?
- for free?
@schmidt_fu 
!
Except for the "for free". I presume the updates are included in the operational costs 
