Posted by jburk to Mars Polar Lander at December 7, 1999 12:00 PM

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Local scientists said Monday they were disappointed at the apparent failure of the Mars Polar Lander but hope exploration of the planet continues. "Scientifically, this was a very, very interesting and exciting mission," said Bart Lipofsky, a professor of physics and astronomy at Brevard Community College. "It's a serious loss."