The ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover, Europe's ambitious mission to search for signs of life on Mars, is now slated for launch in late 2028. A joint effort between the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA, the mission aims to land the rover on the Red Planet in 2030.
Originally conceived as a collaboration with Russia's Roscosmos, geopolitical events necessitated a shift in strategy. Following the suspension of cooperation with Roscosmos, ESA sought a new landing platform. NASA stepped in to provide crucial support, including the launch vehicle and elements of the propulsion system.
Airbus is developing the new landing platform, which will replace the previous Russian lander design. The rover will carry instruments like the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA), designed to detect organic compounds. This will allow scientists to search for potential biosignatures by analyzing samples drilled from up to two meters below the Martian surface.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in international space exploration. The mission's success could revolutionize our understanding of Mars and the potential for life beyond Earth. The Rosalind Franklin mission is expected to significantly advance our understanding of Mars and the potential for life beyond Earth.