NASA will consider using new commercial approaches as one of two options on its new plan on landing the payload platform for its Mars Sample Return Program aimed at bringing to Earth the first rock and sediment samples from the Red Planet. The second choice is the sky crane method on entry, descent and landing tested through the Curiosity and Perseverance missions, the agency said Monday.
In formulating its choice between the two landing options, NASA added that it will advance competition, innovation, as well as address schedule and cost factors. Both mission approaches will involve a landing platform carrying a mini version of the Mars Ascent Vehicle, or MAV.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, a past Wash100 awardee, sees the revised plan’s two options as an assurance on “significant cost and schedule saving” compared to the agency’s previous plan to bring Martian samples back to Earth.
Working to Simplify Its Approach
To simplify its operation, the platform will operate using a radioisotope power system that will replace the MAV solar panels. The lander’s sample loading system will also be redesigned for simpler dust contamination protection of the 30 samples expected to be collected in the tubes of the orbiting sample container.
Capturing the orbiting sample container in the two mission approaches are both dependent on a capture, storage and return system aboard the Earth Return Orbiter of the European Space Agency. ESA is studying the revised NASA plan’s options.
The decision on which design and approach option NASA would take is expected in the second half of 2026. The agency came up with the new plan and its two landing options after receiving 11 studies from the space community on ways to send Martian samples to Earth.
A Mars Sample Return Strategic Review team NASA formed in October 2024 assessed the studies and recommended the sampling program’s main architecture, including schedule and cost estimates.
