Xbox Live Marketplace is down

Update 2: Normal service has resumed. Major Nelson broke the news in a post on his Twitter feed: "The Marketplace on the console is back online. The Xbox.com version is on it's way soon."

Update 1: Microsoft has issued a statement to Eurogamer.

"Users may experience difficulties with the following services: Browsing Indie Games from the Xbox 360 console or Xbox.com, browsing the Games for Windows - LIVE Marketplace on a PC, Browsing Games Marketplace from the Xbox 360 console or Xbox.com.

"We are aware of the problem and are working to resolve the issue. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your patience."

Original story: The Xbox Live Marketplace has disappeared.

The content boxes are there but the content isn't.

All of the categories are blank and selecting one does nothing.

Microsoft was unavailable for comment.

Is it something to do with Rapture? Is it hackers? Or is it just boring-snoring maintenance?