Posted: Sat, Dec 12, 2009, 9:31 AM ET (1431 GMT)
NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) exited an extended safe mode this week because of computer problems. MRO had been in safe mode since August because of a series of unexpected computer resets, and controllers were concerned about the possibility of back-to-back resets of its primary and backup computers which, if it took place, could jeopardize the mission. Controllers uploaded a software patch last week that would prevent such a scenario and brought the spacecraft out of safe mode earlier this week. Normal scientific observations by the spacecraft are expected to begin next week.

Related Links:

•  SPACE.com article
•  Arizona Daily Star article
•  NASA/JPL press release