The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has officially opened the door for international partners to join its ambitious Tianwen-3 Mars sample-return mission. By inviting global participation, China aims to push forward Mars exploration and deepen humanity’s understanding of the red planet.
Tianwen-3 mission set for 2028 launch
Tianwen-3, a major milestone in China’s planetary exploration program, is scheduled to launch around 2028, according to CNSA. CNSA revealed that the mission will dedicate 20 kilograms of payload capacity specifically for international collaboration. The Tianwen-3 mission features a sophisticated spacecraft system made up of a lander, an ascent vehicle, a service module, an orbiter, and a return module. It also carries six scientific instruments designed to advance research on Mars.
The orbiter will circle Mars at about 350 kilometers above the surface, with a planned operational life of at least five years. Meanwhile, the service module will fly a highly elliptical orbit, conducting scientific activities over approximately two Martian years, also with a lifespan of no less than five years.
Payload opportunities for international scientists
CNSA is offering international partners the chance to contribute scientific instruments to the mission, allocating up to 15 kilograms of payload space on the orbiter and 5 kilograms on the service module. Those interested can find detailed technical specifications on the official CNSA website. Because of the limitations in current rocket technology, the mission will require two separate launches. Two Long March-5 carrier rockets will be used to complete the complex task.
The search for life
The primary goal of Tianwen-3 is to search for signs of life on Mars. The mission will also investigate the planet’s climate history, geological features, and internal structure. Retrieving samples from Mars represents one of the most technically demanding challenges in space exploration since the Apollo missions.
Source: Xinhua news.
