Chinese scientists have presented a detailed plan for the interplanetary mission “Tianwen-3”. The project, scheduled for 2028-2031, has an unprecedented task - to deliver samples of Martian soil to Earth and conduct their in-depth scientific analysis, XINHUA News reports.
Specialists from the China Deep Space Research Laboratory have developed a detailed strategy for the expedition, which will be implemented in two stages. The mission's key feature will be a comprehensive landing and sample collection operation in one cycle.
Scientists have identified 86 potential landing sites, focusing on the ancient Chryse and Utopia plains. These geological areas are of particular interest in terms of searching for traces of possible ancient life. The researchers plan to use both surface sampling methods and deep drilling.
Chinese specialists are ready to cooperate with scientists from all over the world to jointly study Martian samples. In the future, the Tianwen-3 mission will not only provide unique scientific data, but will also become a significant step in studying the possibility of life beyond Earth. In parallel, Chinese space researchers are planning the Tianwen-
4 mission, which will be aimed at studying the Jupiter system and the evolution of its satellites.