In Orlando, Florida, NASA has announced plans to study two different approaches for bringing back samples from Mars. These approaches involve leveraging existing Mars mission technologies and exploring new commercial vehicles. The goal is to return samples collected by the Perseverance rover to Earth by 2035.
The key difference between the two options lies in the delivery of a redesigned sample retrieval lander to the Martian surface. One option utilizes the “sky crane” technology developed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, while the other employs a commercially provided “heavy lander.” Both options aim to launch the samples into orbit using a Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV) and retrieve them with a European spacecraft, the Earth Return Orbiter.
The first option, estimated to cost between $6.6 billion and $7.7 billion, builds upon JPL’s sky crane technology. The second option, with projected costs of $5.8 billion to $7.1 billion, involves a commercially provided solution.
Both options feature a redesigned sample retrieval landing platform powered by a radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) for improved operation in Martian conditions. The platform includes a new sample loading system to maintain planetary protection standards.
NASA plans to refine these architectures by mid-2026, with the goal of launching ESA’s orbiter in 2030 and the sample retrieval lander in 2031. The ability to bring samples back sooner depends on funding from Congress.
These plans aim to ensure that NASA’s Mars Sample Return effort remains competitive with other missions, such as a Chinese sample return mission slated for 2028. While acknowledging these challenges, NASA remains committed to advancing our understanding of Mars and the potential for life beyond Earth.
Budgets and schedules
NASA is currently seeking at least $300 million in the 2025 appropriations bill to move forward with these plans. The timeline for returning samples from Mars could range from 2035 to 2039, contingent on funding availability. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson stressed the importance of continued investment in this groundbreaking mission.
As the space agency navigates these complex decisions, it remains dedicated to unlocking the mysteries of Mars and expanding humanity’s knowledge of our universe.
Vocabulary List:
- Approaches /əˈproʊ.tʃɪz/ (noun): Methods or ways of doing something.
- Retrieval /rɪˈtriː.vəl/ (noun): The act of getting something back.
- Commercially /kəˈmɜr.ʃəl.i/ (adverb): In a way that is related to commerce or trade.
- Generator /ˈdʒɛn.ə.reɪ.tər/ (noun): A machine that converts one form of energy into another.
- Contingent /kənˈtɪn.dʒənt/ (adjective): Dependent on something else that might happen.
- Investment /ɪnˈvɛst.mənt/ (noun): The action or process of investing money for profit.
