ExoMars

ExoMars is a joint space programme by the European Space Agency and Roscosmos the Russian Space agency, to search the planet Mars for any sign of past life on the planet. Recently, tests have been conducted to confirm the readiness of an upgraded and new parachute and bag system that is critical for the mission to go ahead in 2022.

Q1.  When was the ExoMars mission launched?

The first part of the mission was launched in the year 2016 and this mission placed a Trace Gas Orbiter into the Mars orbit. A lander was also released but it crashed on the surface of the planet. The second part of the mission was supposed to launch in July 2020 to deliver the Rosalind Franklin Rover on the surface of the planet but it was delayed to the year 2022 due to some problems arising with the parachute of the rover.

Q2. What is Trace Gas Orbiter?

The Trace Gas Orbiter is part of the ExoMars mission of ESA and Roscosmos. The work of the orbiter is to find out traces of methane and other gases present in the atmosphere of Mars, to find out any evidence of life on the planet.

Q3. What is the work of the Rosalind Franklin Rover?

The Rosalind Franklin Rover which was supposed to be launched in the year 2020, but has been delayed due to some technical snags, will operate on the surface of the planet to find any evidence that prove the existence of past life on the surface of the planet.

Q4. When will the Rosalind Franklin Rover be launched?

The launch has been delayed to the year 2022, and recently the parachutes of the rover have been tested and upgraded so that the mission can be launched successfully.