Kathmandu— China is advancing its ambitious Mars sample-return mission by constructing a specialized planetary protection laboratory. The facility, part of the Deep-Space Science City project in Anhui Province, will ensure both Martian samples and Earth’s biosphere are protected through sterilization, unsealing, processing, and biological risk assessment procedures.

Mission Timeline

The Tianwen-3 mission, which aims to collect and return Mars samples, is scheduled for launch around 2028. The spacecraft will embark on its journey with the goal of completing sample collection and returning them to Earth by approximately 2031. This timeline marks a significant step in China’s deep-space exploration endeavors.

Planetary Protection Policies

The laboratory will adhere strictly to planetary protection policies set forth by the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR). These guidelines aim to prevent biological contamination of Mars from Earth-based organisms and safeguard Earth against potential extraterrestrial life forms that might be present in returned samples. Li Hang, director of the development planning department at the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL), emphasized the importance of these measures.

Scientific Research

The new laboratory will facilitate scientific research on extraterrestrial samples and contribute to a better understanding of Mars. This initiative follows China’s successful landing of its Zhurong rover in southern Utopia Planitia in May 2021, which has since traveled over 1,921 meters across the Martian surface, collecting valuable data for analysis.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.