Tag: Earth Return Orbiter
-
NASA narrows design for rocket to launch samples off of Mars
This illustration shows a concept of how the NASA Mars Ascent Vehicle, carrying tubes containing rock and soil samples, could be launched from the surface of Mars in one step of the Mars sample return mission. Credit: NASA/JPL-Catlech After years of studies, test-firings and a survey of U.S. industry in preparation for launch of a…
-
NASA, ESA officials seek formal approvals for Mars sample return mission
Artist’s concept of a Mars sample return mission, including a U.S.-built Mars Ascent Vehicle (left), a European-built Earth Return Orbiter (center), and a NASA-provided Earth Entry Vehicle (right). Credit: ESA/ATG medialab After crystallizing a partnership to retrieve samples from the surface of Mars and return them to Earth, NASA and European Space Agency officials are seeking…