Mars Sample Return Mission
A flagship mission by NASA and ESA aiming to bring rock, soil, and atmospheric samples from Mars to Earth for the first time. Designed to answer key questions about Mars’ geology, climate, and potential for life.
Mission Structure and Status
- Sample Collection: NASA’s Perseverance rover (operational in Jezero Crater since 2021) is collecting samples in titanium tubes. Dozens of samples stored by October 2023.
- Sample Retrieval and Return: Original plan includes three phases:
- Sample Retrieval Lander – To deploy a Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV) and helicopter drones on Mars.
- Mars Ascent Vehicle – To send the sample container into Mars orbit.
- Earth Return ....
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