China Invites World Scientists to Join Historic Mars Exploration
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced on Tuesday an open invitation for international researchers to participate in its ambitious Tianwen-3 Mars mission. Scheduled for launch around 2028, the project aims to study Martian geology, atmospheric dynamics, and potential evidence of past life.
Collaboration Framework and Deadlines
Global institutions may submit payload proposals through June, with selections finalized by October. Selected projects must align with mission objectives and demonstrate technological innovation. While CNSA will integrate qualifying payloads free of charge, foreign partners must fund their development and agree to share data with Chinese collaborators.
Mission Architecture and Objectives
Tianwen-3 will deploy a four-component system: a lander, ascender, orbiter, and Earth return module. The mission represents humanity’s first attempt at a full Mars sample-return operation, with collected materials expected to reach Earth by 2030. Scientists anticipate insights into Martian habitability through analyses of subsurface structures and atmospheric escape mechanisms.
Strengthening Space Science Ties
CNSA encouraged joint development efforts between international and Chinese teams, framing the initiative as a platform for advancing space exploration capabilities. The mission builds on China’s previous successes with Tianwen-1, which placed a rover on Mars in 2021.
