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Airbus Takes the Helm: Europe’s Path to Mars
In a momentous shift in the race to Mars, Airbus has been awarded a £150 million contract to build the lander for Europe’s first rover, the Rosalind Franklin, renewing hopes for the mission's success after tensions with Russia halted progress. This landmark project, initially a collaborative effort with Russia’s Roscosmos under the ExoMars programme, faced significant jeopardy following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The European Space Agency (ESA) severed ties with Russia, leaving the initiative without crucial components, including the vital landing platform.
Rebuilding the Space Mission
With the new deal now finalized, Airbus aims to fulfill the mission's ambitious goal of exploring Mars for signs of life. Specialists from Airbus Defence and Space UK in Stevenage will develop the lander, with the aim of launching the spacecraft from the US in 2028, landing on Mars by 2030. “Getting the Rosalind Franklin rover onto the surface of Mars is a huge international challenge and the culmination of more than 20 years’ work,” stated Kata Escott, the company’s managing director.
Thriving Amid Challenges
Despite the setbacks, progress continues to be made. The rover will utilize advanced technologies, including drilling deep into the Martian surface to gather samples protected from cosmic radiation. It is projected to operate for at least seven months, employing adjustable braking engines from NASA and radioisotope heating units to maintain functionality in the planet's harsh conditions. This concerted effort exemplifies how collaboration and innovation are essential in overcoming obstacles on the path to interplanetary exploration.
Anticipated Milestones for the ExoMars Project
As the mission gears up for its launch, experts are optimistic about the unique insights that the Rosalind Franklin rover could provide. Following in the footsteps of NASA’s Perseverance and the Chinese rover Zhurong, Europe is now positioned to join the ranks of nations actively exploring the Martian landscape. This endeavor not only signifies a technological triumph but also rekindles international collaboration in pursuit of scientific discovery.
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