|
Each week, IBM will highlight a story from around the world where IBM engineers are collaborating with clients, business partners, ISV's and education institutions to bring the latest technology to the market in new and innovative ways. |
Did you know...
...there is a cool NASA mission that will launch a robot to Mars in hopes of determining whether or not life could exist on another planet? NASA plans on launching the Phoenix Mars Lander — its most sophisticated probe to date — powered by IBM Power Architecture.
The "brains" of the spacecraft is the RAD6000 computer by BAE Systems which is based on IBM Power. This radiation-hardened computer will be able to process navigational data and drive key systems both in space and on the planet surface.
Once the Lander reaches the polar north of Mars it will dig into the frozen surface in search of characteristics favorable to life. Given the time, expense and resources needed for the over 400 million mile journey to Mars, it is extremely important that all systems run smoothly in frigid surface temperatures of —100 degrees Fahrenheit and wind speeds of up to 40 meters per second.
The RAD6000 is built on the same foundation as Power processors used in the latest gaming consoles, automobiles and sixty percent of the world's supercomputers. A mission proven computer, the RAD6000 drives systems for both the Spirit and Opportunity Mars Landers, both of which set out for a 90 day mission in 2003 and are still running to this day.
You can check out the press release here.
See how IBM is collaborating with clients in unique ways in next Friday's installment of 40 Clients in 40 Weeks!
| 
