NASA has outlined its strategy for future robotic exploration of Mars, focusing on smaller missions that can tackle key science questions about the planet. The plan, titled “Expanding the Horizons of Mars Science,” advocates for a regular cadence of low-cost missions to answer scientific queries ahead of human missions.
The plan is divided into three co-equal science themes: exploring the potential for Martian life, supporting human exploration of Mars, and revealing Mars as a dynamic planetary system. Smaller spacecraft with projected costs of $100 million to $300 million each will focus on specific scientific questions with single or small suites of instruments.
NASA plans to augment these smaller missions with less frequent but larger ones featuring more complex instruments. The agency also proposes flying payloads on other space agencies’ or commercial missions and revitalizing aging infrastructure at Mars, such as communications relays and high-resolution imagery.
The plan does not include specific mission plans or budget requirements, emphasizing flexibility under challenging budget circumstances and competing priorities. NASA is allocating $40 million in its 2025 budget proposal for Mars robotic exploration technologies, with $30 million dedicated to internal efforts and $10 million offered to industry and academia for innovative robotic mobility technologies.
By adopting this strategy, NASA aims to maximize scientific knowledge of Mars ahead of human missions, preparing the groundwork for future crewed missions. The plan’s flexibility allows it to adapt to changing priorities and budget constraints, ensuring continued progress in Mars exploration.
Source: https://spacenews.com/nasa-releases-long-term-strategy-for-robotic-mars-exploration