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By late 2026, then-President Donald Trump, not NASA, will decide the approach, with key differences in technology affecting cost and timing considerations
NASA has revealed a new strategy for the Mars Sample Return Program. (AP file)
NASA’s Perseverance Rover has collected many soil samples on Mars. While its work continues, details about the samples’ return to Earth are still limited. The program is likely to involve a two-phase approach. First, a lander will land on Mars to retrieve the samples from Perseverance and transfer them to an orbiting spacecraft. Second, a vehicle from the European Space Agency will transport these samples to Earth. However, the performance of NASA’s role depends on a decision made not by NASA itself, but by the then President of the United States, Donald Trump.
NASA’s new strategy revealed
NASA has revealed a new strategy for the Mars Sample Return Program. In the planning phase, the agency is exploring two distinct approaches to encourage competition, innovation, and cost and time efficiency.
Cost and time will be big factors
Eventually, NASA must commit to a single method. The final decision will rest with then US President Donald Trump in the latter half of 2026, not NASA itself. The main difference between the two methods lies in their technology, making cost and time critical factors.
Why has NASA chosen two options?
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson explained the rationale behind this approach. By developing two potential routes, NASA aims to significantly reduce the program’s cost and duration. Analyzing these samples could unlock secrets not only about Mars but also the universe and ultimately life on Earth.
Choose from 11 studies
In September 2024, the agency received 11 studies from the NASA community and industry, each describing potential methods for transporting samples from Mars to Earth. The Mars Sample Return Strategic Review Team was tasked with evaluating these studies and making recommendations for the campaign.
The first option has already been used
NASA will analyze and evaluate two methods of sample collection on Mars. The first option leverages existing methods, including Mars entry, surface landing, and aerial crane landing system design—techniques previously used for Curiosity and Perseverance Rover deployments.
This will be the change in the second option
The second option explores new commercial opportunities. Both options involve the Mars Ascent Vehicle, but with one crucial modification: the spacecraft’s solar panels will be replaced with a radioisotope power system to provide power during Martian dust storms. Orbiter’s sample container holds only 30 test tubes containing samples collected by the Perseverance Rover.
NASA had initially considered a one-off mission to retrieve samples. But after careful consideration, a multipart mission emerged as the more effective strategy. A significant challenge lies in landing the Mars Ascent Vehicle safely on Mars and ensuring a precise launch from the Martian surface. Ultimately, the Trump administration, responsible for approving the program’s budget, will determine the chosen option. Although the samples are expected to return to Earth within the next decade, the exact timeline remains undetermined.
