On the very first day of this administration, the president laid out his ambitions regarding Mars. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the United States’ intention to explore new frontiers in science, aiming to lead humanity into space and eventually plant the American flag on both Earth and Mars.
President Trump’s vision for Mars seems promising, and there’s now a clear plan for moving forward.
The United States has been at the forefront of Mars exploration since the Viking landers touched down in 1976. Right now, the country stands on the brink of two significant milestones: the return of Martian samples to Earth and sending the first American astronaut to the Martian surface.
In the 2026 Presidential Budget Request, there was a discussion about potentially halting the Mars Sample Return Program, noting that the existing options are affordable. However, it was also mentioned that future missions are expected to collect samples for Earth-based research.
Collecting samples robotically is crucial for research back home. If we delay these returns or rely solely on astronauts to gather samples, the cost and risks associated with human exploration on Mars could increase significantly, potentially allowing China to take the lead in space exploration.
A low-cost robotic sample return could actually save money for future human missions. The soil on Mars is known to be toxic and could harbor uncharacterized biological materials. If we don’t bring back samples, we have to prepare for every possible scenario for human missions, which, let’s be honest, is a tall order.
To accurately assess the risks associated with Martian soil, clinical tests need to be conducted. These tests will help us understand the types and levels of toxic substances present, crucial for designing space suits that can protect astronauts from harmful Martian dust. This proactive approach can help reduce risks and make future missions safer.
Although we haven’t directly detected life on Mars, evidence suggests that parts of the planet were once habitable and might still be. Before sending humans, we need to ensure any potential samples returned are handled carefully, following strict contamination protocols to protect both astronauts and Earth’s environment.
Returning Martian samples could solidify the U.S.’s position as a leader in space exploration. Mars is far larger than Earth or the Moon and utilizing current technology for a round trip could take up to three years, which is quite a contrast to the shorter Apollo missions. Before the first manned lunar landing, there were several preparatory missions that laid the groundwork. Completing the Mars sample return will refine our landing accuracy and prepare for future human missions by positioning astronauts closer to safe landing spots and essential supplies.
Furthermore, bringing back samples from Mars could represent a groundbreaking moment in science. If those samples reveal signs of life, it could answer the fundamental question of whether we are alone in the universe—a question I personally find incredibly compelling.
Lockheed Martin, where I previously worked, has been exploring sample return missions for decades and is confident in delivering a feasible end-to-end solution at a cost of under $3 billion—significantly reduced from early estimates—by optimizing design and using proven technology. They’ve successfully developed numerous Mars missions already.
Nasa’s Perseverance rover, which is currently stationed in Jezero Crater, is collecting an extensive array of samples that could significantly enhance our understanding of Mars, far beyond what previous missions have achieved. Meanwhile, China has announced plans for its own sample return mission, set to launch in 2028, planning to return to Earth by 2031, which puts pressure on the U.S. to act swiftly.
The distinct nature and potential hazards of Martian soil and dust make it essential to prioritize sample returns ahead of any crewed missions. NASA must maintain its leadership role in Mars exploration in order to pave the way for future advancements.
Ben Clark has been involved in all of NASA’s Mars surface exploration missions and played a role in creating the first instruments to analyze Martian soil. As Lockheed Martin’s chief scientist for Deep Space Exploration, he currently helps analyze the diverse samples collected by Perseverance during its extensive exploration of Mars.
