Computer Coding Error Led to Loss of Mars Space Probe

Command system upgrade sent performance settings to the wrong areas of memory

Computer coding errors apparently caused the loss of the Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft last year, the NASA space agency has revealed. The spacecraft, launched in November 1996, began its orbit of Mars the following September as part of a nearly 10-year scientific survey. It mapped the surface and atmosphere of Mars, provided extensive images of the planet and even assisted in locating a landing spot for other spacecraft.