China invites the world on its mission to Mars while Nasa reels from Trump cuts
China's Tianwen-3 Mars mission is on track for a 2028 launch and is inviting international science projects to participate, increasing its chances of being the first to retrieve samples from Mars. The China National Space Administration (CNSA) issued the official invitation, offering free rides for up to 20kg of instruments that align with the mission's objectives, such as searching for past life on Mars. Selected projects must demonstrate strong innovation in science and engineering and be ready by 2027.
This announcement contrasts with challenges faced by NASA, including budget cuts and uncertainties surrounding its own Mars mission. The Tianwen-3 selection process will follow an accelerated timeline, with decisions expected in October. Planetary scientist Qian Yuqi noted that the announcement confirms Tianwen-3 is on schedule, highlighting the difference with the situation at NASA.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
China's Tianwen-3 Mars mission is on track for a 2028 launch and is inviting international science projects to participate, increasing its chances of being the first to retrieve samples from Mars. The China National Space Administration (CNSA) issued the official invitation, offering free rides for up to 20kg of instruments that align with the mission's objectives, such as searching for past life on Mars. Selected projects must demonstrate strong innovation in science and engineering and be ready by 2027.
This announcement contrasts with challenges faced by NASA, including budget cuts and uncertainties surrounding its own Mars mission. The Tianwen-3 selection process will follow an accelerated timeline, with decisions expected in October. Planetary scientist Qian Yuqi noted that the announcement confirms Tianwen-3 is on schedule, highlighting the difference with the situation at NASA.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
