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NASA Explores Two Options for Mars Sample Return, Aims to Bring Back 30 Samples by 2035

Jan 7, 2025, 06:17 PM

NASA has announced a new approach to its Mars Sample Return Program, aiming to bring Martian rock and sediment samples back to Earth. The agency, led by Administrator Bill Nelson and Associate Administrator Nicky Fox, has decided to pursue two distinct landing architectures to maximize the chances of success. The first option involves using the proven sky crane technology, previously utilized by the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers, with an estimated cost range of $6.6 billion to $7.7 billion. The second option explores new commercial capabilities, such as heavy lift vehicles, with costs estimated between $5.8 billion and $7.1 billion. NASA plans to finalize the design selection in 2026. The program seeks to return the 30 samples collected by the Perseverance rover as early as 2035, with the goal of understanding Mars' geological history, climate evolution, and potential past life, while also preparing for future human exploration.