mars ascent vehicle

4+ articles

2026 completion China Commercial Heavy-Lift ESA European Space Agency

NASA Weighs Sky Crane vs. Commercial Tech for Mars Sample Return

NASA is exploring two possible landing methods for its Mars Sample Return mission: the trusty sky crane and innovative commercial technologies. By evaluating both, NASA aims to boost competition and cut costs, with a final decision set for late 2026. This mission, crucial for uncovering Mars' secrets, is powered by a reliable radioisotope power system, and involves coordination with the European Space Agency. Dive into the details of this groundbreaking mission!

Jan 26

NASA Weighs Sky Crane vs. Commercial Tech for Mars Sample Return

NASA's Mars Quest: An Out-of-this-World Sample Return Mission!

NASA reveals its compelling strategy for bringing Martian samples back to Earth under the Mars Sample Return (MSR) program using dual landing systems: the reliable sky crane and innovative private sector tech. With the ESA partnership and newly developed technology, the plan promises a celestial journey like no other!

Jan 17

NASA's Mars Quest: An Out-of-this-World Sample Return Mission!

NASA Unveils New Plans for Mars Sample Return with Two Exciting Options

NASA has revised its ambitious $11 billion Mars Sample Return mission plan by setting forth two fresh, viable options aimed at bringing Martian samples back to Earth in the 2030s, keeping both budget ($5.8-$7.7 billion) and timeline in check, while collaborating with partners like ESA and staying ahead of China's similar mission strategies.

Jan 10

NASA Unveils New Plans for Mars Sample Return with Two Exciting Options

NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission Decision Delayed Until 2026

In a cosmic twist, NASA has decided to delay its next big move – finalizing the architecture for the Mars Sample Return mission – to mid-2026. This mission, which aims to return Martian samples to Earth, is currently assessing two potential landing approaches: the reputable 'Sky Crane' system and newer commercial heavy landers. With redesign talks on smaller Mars Ascent Vehicles and other upgrades, cost estimates range widely, pushing this groundbreaking mission to the 2030s. While some eagerly await discoveries from the red planet, others critique the timeline and soaring costs.

Jan 10

NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission Decision Delayed Until 2026