Does M700 Scanner need to stay in orbit?

[manek22]

Once you scan a body, do you need to keep the probe with the scanner in orbit to keep the overlay? Trying to clean up all the ships that aren't needed. Thanks.

Edited September 5, 2015 by manek22

[Kelderek]

I have no idea about the answer to this, but you would think it shouldn't matter - it's not like the ore concentrations and locations would be able to change. But if the kerbals fail to have data backups, then they may require an active scanner in orbit.

[Reactordrone]

No, it doesn't. I sent up an Ion probe to Jool and took the scanner to all the moons and the resource overlay remains even after the probe has gone.

[tbarcello]

My Mun scanner completed Mun map and went to Minmus. All overlays and maps are still available, including SCANsat

[RexKramer]

After you run a scan successfully, the data is transmitted to Kerbin. (Not sure if you need an antenna or not for this..) After that, you always have access to the data (map overlay). I believe you actually get some science from this too. So once you run a scan, you don't need the scanner anymore.

The narrow-band scanner is different, that one needs to be in orbit to function.

With the M700 Survey Scanner, I usually attach it to a docking port. Once the scan has completed, I jettison (undock) the scanner and let it float away. Saves a little weight, but honestly the device is quite large and makes my vessels look goofy, which is the real reason I get rid of it as soon as I can.

[manek22]

Thanks guys. Wasn't sure. One less satellite cluttering up the sky.