China Invites International Collaboration for 2028 Mars Sample Return Mission
The China National Space Administration has opened its Tianwen-3 Mars sample return mission to international collaboration. Scheduled for a late 2028 launch, the mission aims to gather and return Mars samples to Earth, focusing on detecting signs of past life. Researchers are invited to propose payloads, with significant opportunities for international scientific cooperation and innovation.
On March 11, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced the opening of its pioneering Mars sample return mission, Tianwen-3, to international collaboration. This mission, set to launch in late 2028, aims to collect samples from Mars and return them to Earth for the first time, with a focus on detecting potential biosignatures and investigating the historical presence of life on the planet.
The CNSA encourages global participation, inviting international partners to contribute at various levels, including system and payload support. Teams may propose payloads that can either utilize the Tianwen-3 spacecraft or operate independently, with a total of 15 kg allocated on the Earth return orbiter and an additional 5 kg on the Mars orbiter. Proposals are due by June 30, 2025, with final selections slated for October 2025.
Tianwen-3’s mission comprises two launches via Long March 5 rockets, occurring within the optimal launch window every 26 months, expected from late 2028 to early 2029. The anticipated arrival of samples on Earth is projected for 2030 or 2031. The mission builds on existing lunar mission technologies, drawing from China’s successful Chang’e-5 and Chang’e-6 missions.
The mission objectives include investigating Martian geology and atmospheric dynamics, searching for signs of life, and analyzing the planet’s habitability. The spacecraft will be equipped with advanced scientific payloads, including a Mars Subsurface Penetrating Radar and various instruments designed for mineral detection and atmospheric studies.
Landing site selection has focused on three prequalified areas: Amazonis Planitia, Utopia Planitia, and Chryse Planitia, with careful consideration of geological features that may indicate the presence of historical biosignatures. Controlled sampling strategies will include both surface sampling of sedimentary rocks and deeper drilling to avoid oxidization of potential organic materials.
If successful, Tianwen-3 could signify a major achievement in scientific exploration, enhancing China’s position in global space exploration and potentially answering crucial questions regarding the existence of life on Mars.
The Tianwen-3 mission represents a landmark initiative in planetary exploration, inviting global collaboration to investigate the potential for past life on Mars. By integrating advanced technologies and rigorous scientific methodologies, China aims to establish itself as a leader in space exploration. With the timeline for proposals and launches clearly outlined, the potential for groundbreaking discoveries in astrobiology and planetary science stands unprecedented if this mission succeeds.
Original Source: spacenews.com
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