Schiaparelli: Esa gives update on Mars crash investigation <?xml version="1.0"?> The European Space Agency has released details from its preliminary report into the Schiaparelli crash on Mars. The investigation confirms the probe misinterpreted sensor data, which made it think it was below ground level, when in reality the module was still at an altitude of around 3.7km. This prompted Schiaparelli to jettison its parachute too early and to fire its landing rockets for just three seconds. These actions put the probe into a freefall that led to its destruction.