"By converting to tried and tested technologies used to keep the net running, Nasa believes it can cut the numbers of staff needed to ensure spacecraft stay in touch.
"To test the technology the Columbia space shuttle was fitted with an embedded PC that has a 233 MHz processor, 128 MB of RAM and a solid-state 144 MB hard drive.
"The computer is running Red Hat, a version of the Linux operating system, and is maintaining a connection with the Goddard Space Flight Center which will to try to contact the onboard PC more than 140 times over the duration of the shuttle mission STS-107..."
Editor's Note: A developing story is coming out Saturday morning that communications with the Columbia has been lost as the craft was on final re-entry. As the shuttle was the topic of discussion here on LT yesterday, I have included updated links from various news outlets to the story. Our thoughts and prayers are with the souls on board Columbia and their families on the ground. -BKP
