Rosalind Franklin
vehicleRosalind Franklin is a Mars rover developed for the European Space Agency's ExoMars mission.
The Rosalind Franklin rover aims to explore Mars with a focus on astrobiology, specifically searching for organic materials beneath the Martian surface. NASA has selected SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket for its launch, scheduled for late 2028. This mission represents a significant collaboration between NASA and the European Space Agency, following a long history of delays and challenges.
Articles · 3
view in feed →
SpaceX Won A Mars Mission That Might Get Cancelled
NASA selected SpaceX's Falcon Heavy to potentially launch the Rosalind Franklin rover to Mars by late 2028 for a reported $175.7M. However, the White House's FY2027 budget proposal suggests canceling NASA's participation in the mission, putting its future in jeopardy. This marks NASA's second attempt at an ExoMars partnership after previous cancellations due to budget constraints.
This life-hunting rover may be SpaceX's 1st-ever Mars launch
SpaceX has secured its first Mars launch with NASA selecting its Falcon Heavy rocket to deploy the Rosalind Franklin rover in late 2028. This mission, part of the ExoMars program, aims to search for signs of life on Mars. NASA will provide crucial support, including a propulsion system and specialized instruments for the rover's scientific objectives.
ESA’s Mars Rover to Launch Aboard SpaceX Falcon Heavy in 2028
NASA has selected a SpaceX Falcon Heavy to launch the Rosalind Franklin Mars rover for the European Space Agency no earlier than late 2028. This decision follows a partnership agreement from May 2024, with ESA independently developing the mission after cutting ties with Roscosmos. ESA awarded a €522 million contract to Thales Alenia Space on April 9, 2024, for mission elements.