International group plans strategy for Mars sample return mission

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Artists view of the Mars Sample Return (MSR) ascent module lifting off from Mars surface with the Martian soil samples. Credits: ESA
Artist's view of the Mars Sample Return (MSR) ascent module lifting off from Mars' surface with the Martian soil samples. Credits: ESA

ESA, NASA and an international team are developing plans and seeking recommendations to launch the first Mars mission to bring soil samples back to Earth. The ability to study soil from Mars here on Earth will contribute significantly to answering questions about the possibility of life on the Red Planet.


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All News summaries for December 20, 2007

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Oct 10, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
(AP) -- NASA has decided to press ahead with plans to launch a big new rover to Mars next year. Friday's decision comes after concerns were raised about the budget and technical progress for the Mars Science ...

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Oct 10, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
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Researchers Study Coastal Hazards of Increasing Wave Heights, Rising Sea Levels

Oct 10, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
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Scientists resolve long-standing puzzle in climate science

Oct 10, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
(PhysOrg.com) -- A team led by Livermore scientists has helped reconcile the differences between simulated and observed temperature trends in the tropics.

Mars Odyssey Shifting Orbit for Extended Mission

Oct 10, 2008 | User rating: not rated yet
(PhysOrg.com) -- The longest-serving of six spacecraft now studying Mars is up to new tricks for a third two-year extension of its mission to examine the most Earthlike of known foreign planets.