NASA develops two plans to return Mars samples as costs rise
NASA is developing two plans to return rock samples from Mars, collected by the Perseverance rover since 2021. This decision follows challenges with the original mission, which faced cost overruns and delays. The new approach includes one method using a traditional sky crane landing technique and another developed by a commercial partner. Both plans will utilize a smaller rocket to launch sample tubes into orbit. NASA's budget for the Mars Sample Return mission has increased from $7 billion to $11 billion, with a new target for sample return set for 2040. The agency aims to expedite the process while ensuring scientific success.