China is opening the doors to the world, inviting overseas researchers to participate in its ambitious Mars sample return mission, Tianwen-3, scheduled for launch around 2028.
The China National Space Administration (CNSA) has called on international research institutions, including those in Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, to submit proposals for developing scientific payloads. This marks a significant step in global collaboration for space exploration.
About Tianwen-3 Mission
Tianwen-3, a key part of China’s planetary exploration program, aims to bring back samples from Mars to search for signs of life and study the planet’s climate, geology, and internal processes. The spacecraft will include a lander, an ascent vehicle, a service module, an orbiter, and a return module, equipped with six scientific payloads open for international collaboration.
Opportunity for Global Scientists
The six payloads available for overseas researchers are:
Raman Fluorescence Spectrometer
Ultra-Wideband Exploration Radar
Mid-Infrared Superfine Imaging Spectrometer
Mars Global Multicolor Camera
Descent ENA Aurora Detector
High-Precision Vector Magnetometer
CNSA requires that all payload projects be led by a domestic institution, with up to five entities involved in the joint development of a single payload. Last month, the administration announced up to 15 kilograms of payload resources on the orbiter and 5 kilograms on the service module are available for international cooperation.
Advancing Space Exploration Together
This initiative reflects China’s commitment to international cooperation in space exploration. By inviting global scientists to contribute to the Tianwen-3 mission, China is fostering a collaborative environment to enhance our understanding of the Red Planet.
