In 2026, NASA will make a crucial decision on how to bring samples of Martian soil back to Earth, ushering in a new era of space exploration and scientific discovery.
Tl;dr
- NASA is exploring two options for its Mars sample return program.
- The first method, “sky crane”, has already been used by the space agency.
- The second option involves commercial space companies.
NASA explores two options for its Mars program
Due to budgetary constraints, NASA is currently exploring two different options for its ambitious Mars sample return program. The space agency had to temporarily pause this program after an independent review revealed that its cost could range between $8 and $11 billion, well above the allocated budget.
The sky crane method
The first method under study is based on a technique already proven by NASA: that of « sky crane ». This process involves sending a vehicle to Mars which, using a parachute, would approach the surface, collect the samples collected by the Perseverance rover, and then fly away again. This method has previously been used to deliver the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers to the Red Planet.
Collaboration with commercial space companies
The second option considered requires the use of commercial space companies. Last year, NASA solicited SpaceX, Blue Origin, Lockheed Martin and other companies to submit proposals on how to bring the Martian samples back to Earth. Whichever option is chosen, it will involve sending a smaller than planned version of the Martian ascension vehicle. The latter, a small launcher, will be responsible for transporting samples from the surface of Mars to Martian orbit.
Program issues and challenges
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory had to lay off 530 employees and cut 100 contracts, mainly due to budgetary issues related to this mission. NASA had requested $950 million for the program, but only $300 million was allocated. Additionally, the Washington Post reports that the US government deemed it “unacceptable” that the samples could not be returned to Earth before 2040.
In a teleconference, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson revealed that the two methods currently under consideration would cost significantly less than the original budget. The samples collected by Perseverance could help us determine whether life existed on Mars and whether its soil contains substances potentially dangerous to future space travelers.
