Posted: Sat, Jul 5, 2003, 9:18 AM ET (1318 GMT)
An instrument problem has disrupted operations on NASA's ICESat earth sciences spacecraft, the BBC reported Friday. One of the lasers in the spacecraft's only scientific instrument, a laser altimeter, has malfunctioned, and project managers have suspended operations of the spacecraft while the problem is investigated. No mention of the problem is offered on the ICESat web site. How long the problem has existed was not reported, although project manager Jim Watzin told the BBC he hopes a review panel makes a decision this month on the future of the mission. In the worst case the spacecraft can continue by using a backup laser in the instrument. ICESat, launched in January, uses its laser altimeter to measure the elevation and extent of ice sheets as well as cloud properties.

Related Links:

•  BBC article
•  ICESat web site