NASA’s Efforts to Bring Mars Samples to Earth
NASA has recently announced that it will focus on two approaches for returning Martian samples to Earth within the next 18 months. The targeted return year is 2035, which places the U.S. behind China in the race to retrieve samples from Mars. According to recent reports, China’s mission could bring back samples about five years earlier than NASA’s. However, NASA insists that China’s samples may not offer a full understanding of Mars’ geological history, as they lack a concept for targeted sample selection.
Two Approaches for Mars Sample Return
The first approach under consideration relies on NASA’s proven “sky crane” technology. This technology, developed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), has already been successfully used during the landings of the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers. This method is projected to cost between $6.6 billion and $7.7 billion. The second option involves using a heavy commercial landing module, which would land on Mars and launch with soil samples. The estimated cost for this method is between $5.8 billion and $7.1 billion. The key difference between the two options lies in the landing mechanism, as noted by Nicola Fox, NASA’s Deputy Administrator for Science Programs.
Both methods involve designing a new landing platform that will transport the Mars Ascent Vehicle (MAV) to the surface of the planet. The MAV will be smaller than its original version and equipped with a radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) instead of solar panels. NASA believes the RTG will mitigate the problems posed by Martian dust and low light levels in certain areas.
Europe’s Role in Mars Sample Return
Once the MAV launches the sample container into Mars orbit, a European spacecraft, the Earth Return Orbiter, will capture and return the samples to Earth. This collaborative approach is expected to simplify the design of the European orbiter’s capture system.
NASA hopes to launch the European orbital station by 2030, followed by the landing module in 2031. However, NASA’s Bill Nelson emphasized that Congress must allocate sufficient funds to accelerate the project. A swift path could cost over $300 million more.
Despite these advancements, NASA’s first Mars samples are not expected to reach Earth until 2035, with the possibility of delays extending until 2039. Meanwhile, China is developing its own program to collect Mars samples by 2028. NASA argues that China’s quicker approach will not provide a complete understanding of Mars, as their mission lacks a planned method for careful sample selection.
Perseverance’s Vital Role
Perseverance is already storing samples that could potentially contain ancient biosignatures. JPL’s Laurie Leshin confirmed that the rover is holding material that may answer the question of whether life ever existed on Mars. JPL is ready to deploy any reliable technology, whether it’s the tested sky crane or commercial spacecraft like Starship, to return these unique samples to Earth for further study.
