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Experimental Mars Probe Attempts Landing; Fate Unknown

BERLIN (CBS / AP) -- A senior European Space Agency official says that the signal from the experimental Schiaparelli probe cut off before its landing on Mars, which he says isn't a good sign.

Paolo Ferri, ESA's head of operations, said the signal "stopped shortly before landing."

He cautioned that more analysis of the data was needed to understand what had happened to the experimental lander during Wednesday's descent.

He says it is too soon to jump to conclusions but "it's clear that these are not good signs."

He said that an update is expected on Thursday.

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