NASA unveils new plan to reduce costs and time for Mars sample return mission
NASA has proposed a new plan to return rocks and soil from Mars that is cheaper and faster than the original $11 billion plan. Administrator Bill Nelson announced this change, aiming to bring samples back in the 2030s. The revised plan includes two options costing between $6 billion and $7 billion. Both options maintain the same number of spacecraft and launches but aim to streamline the mission. One option uses a traditional landing method, while the other involves private companies. NASA plans to clean the sample tubes on Mars instead of in the spacecraft and switch to nuclear power to withstand dust storms. A final decision on the plan will be made next year.