NASA's Mars Sample Return Plan
NASA is proposing a cheaper and quicker way to retrieve rocks and soil samples from Mars after the original plan swelled to $11 billion. The new scenario aims to return 30 titanium tubes as soon as possible at a cost of $6 to $7 billion, considering innovative designs by commercial partners. The samples collected by the Perseverance rover are crucial for the search for signs of ancient Martian life.
Key Points
- Original plan costs $11 billion
- New plan aims to cost $6 to $7 billion
- Samples collected by Perseverance rover are crucial for scientific research
Pros
- Proposes a cheaper and quicker way to retrieve Mars samples
- Includes innovative designs by commercial partners
- Aims to return 30 titanium tubes as soon as possible
Cons
- Original plan swelled to $11 billion
- Need for funding from incoming administration
- Details of the options are still being finalized