Rocket Lab wins NASA contract to study martian rock sample return mission

The NASA Rapid Mission Design Studies for Mars Sample Return initiative calls for proposals to examine mission designs that could bring samples collected by the Mars Perseverance rover to Earth. These studies will help shape the future of NASA's Mars Sample Return Program and may lead to future collaborations with industry.

Rocket Lab's study will focus on a streamlined mission design that could be delivered at a significantly reduced cost and years ahead of the current timeline, which projects a return date of 2040.

"Retrieving samples from Mars is one of the most ambitious and scientifically important endeavors humanity has ever embarked upon. We've developed an innovative mission concept to make it happen affordably and on an accelerated schedule," said Rocket Lab founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck.

In recent years, Rocket Lab has focused on cost-effective planetary science missions, making it a strong candidate for this project. The company has successfully demonstrated its capabilities by delivering a NASA mission to the Moon, performing in-orbit proximity operations, re-entering a capsule from orbit, and contributing to other Mars mission initiatives.

Rocket Lab plans to reveal its proposed mission architecture in the coming months after the study concludes.