NASA will analyze and research two different landing options for its Mars sample return program, although it will take almost two years to complete and is expected to announce its decision in late 2026. The agency had to temporarily pause the program after an independent review found it could cost the project between $8 billion and $11 billion, far over budget.
The first method that NASA is evaluating is called a “sky crane,” in which the craft will fly to Mars, approach the surface with a parachute, and collect samples. Perseverance The rover pulled itself together using cables or other mechanisms and then flew away. NASA previously used this method to place the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers on Mars.
Meanwhile, the second option requires the help of commercial space companies. Last year, the agency asked SpaceX, Blue Origin, Lockheed Martin and other companies to submit proposals for how to bring collected Martian samples back to Earth. Whichever option the agency chooses, it will feature a smaller version of the Mars Ascent Vehicle than originally planned. The Mars Ascent Vehicle is a lightweight rocket that will carry samples from the planet's surface to Martian orbit. It must also be capable of carrying a container that can hold 30 sample tubes. Once the sample container is in orbit, the European Space Agency's orbiter will pick it up and bring it home.
Early last year, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory had to… lay off 530 employees and laid off 100 contractors, largely due to budget problems associated with the mission. NASA requested $950 million for the program, but only $300 million was allocated. An independent review that found the mission would cost over budget also found it may not be able to bring samples back to Earth by 2040. According to previous report Washington PostThe US government deemed the return date “unacceptable.”
On a teleconference, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson disclosed Either of the two methods the agency is now considering would cost much less than it would have originally spent. The sky crane will reportedly cost NASA between $6.6 billion and $7.7 billion, while working with a private space company will cost between $5.8 billion and $7.1 billion. Either option would also allow samples to be retrieved and returned sometime between 2035 and 2039. Scientists believe the samples Perseverance collected could help us determine whether there was life on Mars and whether its soil contains chemicals and substances that could be harmful. future cosmonauts.