Re: computer language used to program Mars Lander

[CBFalconer <cbfalconer@yahoo.com>]

Keith Thompson wrote:
> "jhc0033@gmail.com" <jhc0033@gmail.com> writes:
>
>> Interesting article I came across on Slashdot:
>>
>> http://developers.slashdot.org/developers/08/07/10/213211.shtml
>>
>> They are using C at JPL to program Mars Lander and just about
>> everything now! Not Ada. Anyone got an explanation? I wonder
>> also, do they really mean C++ when they say C. In my experience,
>> this is a frequent, although disagreeable usage.
> 
> This was cross-posted to comp.lang.ada and comp.lang.c.  I
> suggest we all refuse to take the bait and *not* start a
> cross-language flame war.

It has nothing to do with wars.  It is simply an illustration that
proves that it is _possible_ to generate accurate code with C.  It
is also possible with assembly language.  However, doing so
requires good programmers with plenty of experience.  You can get
equal quality from poorer programmers with less experience by using
Ada.  I leave it to you what you will get with experienced good
programmers and Ada.

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