ESA's Philae Comet Lander Found Lying In A Deep Crack In The Shadow Of A Cliff

Philae, a robotic comet lander, that was deployed with Rosetta spacecraft landed on the surface of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, a Jupiter-family comet, on November 12, 2014. On the other hand, it had lost contact after its batteries ran down due to reduced sunlight. On September 2, 2016, the comet lander was finally found.

Philae was identified lying on its side in a deep crack in the shadow of a cliff. It appeared visible in the photographs taken by Rosetta as it was sent on orbits closer to the comet. Its exact location remains to be identified yet.

Space probe Rosetta has found comet lander Philae, once thought to be forever lost https://t.co/Xi4Y0AB1iK pic.twitter.com/63Wod0hZTp

— CNN (@CNN) September 5, 2016

The European Space Agency (ESA), which operates Philae, told the BBC that there is no doubt about the detection---"it's as clear as day." It was seen in the photographs stuck against a large over-hang. On the other hand, its 1m-wide box shape and legs were evident.

Philae's scientific goal was to land successfully on the surface of the comet and send out data about the comet's composition. These include the isotopic, elemental, molecular and mineralogical composition of the cometary material. The mission of Rosetta was scheduled to end later in September 2016.

Prof Mark McCaughrean, ESA's senior science advisor said that it was very significant to find Philae before the mission ended, to comprehend the context of its in-situ scientific measurements. He further said that it was just as significant to stipulate some emotional closure for the millions who have been following both Rosetta and Philae through the trials and tribulations of their exploration of this notable remnant of the birth of the Solar System. "And there's one big final adventure to come on 30 September as Rosetta itself descends to the comet, doing unique science close-up before the mission ends for good," concluded Prof. McCaughrean.