FRANK JORDANS, Associated Press
Comet Lander's Unexpected Final Position
BERLIN (AP) — The European Space Agency says its comet lander appears to have come to rest in the shadow of a cliff, posing a potential problem for its solar panels.
Potential Power Issues for Philae
Mission scientist Jean-Pierre Bibring says ground controllers will see whether it’s possible to adjust the lander to make sure its solar panels can catch the sun and charge the batteries.
Landing Stability and Lander Condition
Bibring said Thursday that the lander, called Philae, also appears to be standing on just two of its three feet.
He stressed that — apart from the unplanned alignment — the lander’s scientific instruments are operating normally.
Historic First for Space Exploration
The landing Wednesday was the first time a spacecraft has ever landed on a comet.
