I would want to take the "chance" of trying to open those 4 solar panels, even if it was to "see what happens". I don't know the exact layout of the equipment on board, but opening those panels just might trigger something good to happen. At this point, there really isn't anything to lose. Who knows? Opening the panels might expose the batteries to more heat from the sun, which could possibly cause them to "open" quicker, or if the orientation of AO-40 is off, the extra panels might receive enough light to get that IHU working again. Or if there's a short due to the "event", moving the panels may remove the short (or fix an open). Do any of the command stations want to elaborate on why the panels have remained retracted? Has this been discussed? Of course, this is all depending on if the receiver will accept the command in the first place...
I would wonder about the sensors picking up light inside the spacecraft too. Doesn't sound possible that telemetry would still be able to report this if there's holes in the craft.
I'm only questioning opening the panels because it seems like it's the only possible thing left to try to resurrect the bird, but nobody wants to make the decision - "just in case", which is understandable too. But I'd say go for it since there's nothing else to try & she's been silent for a while now.
Just my 2 cents worth. Keeping my fingers crossed that AO-40 comes back!... Larry
Four of the solar panels are retractable but not released. Please see some old pictures. As the orientation of AO-40 is not known it is better that the panels are kept around the satellite. If they still exists... There is enough power from a single panel to run IHU and some beacon if the bus wires and electronics are not damaged. Some sensors indicated that sun is shining into the satellite so there may be big hole(s) in it. Not sure about that raport though. Have to check out that. The beacons were loud with the omnis and data was easily received with rubber duck and hand held radio. Miss that fine telemetry sound.
I have allways said that the world would be different if AO-40 were alive.
Jari, OH3UW