The ExoMars mission is a joint endeavour between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Russian space agency, Roscosmos. It was launched in 2016 with the aim of exploring Mars and its environment, seeking evidence of past or present life on the Red Planet.
The first stage of the ExoMars mission saw the launch of the Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and Schiaparelli lander. The TGO is designed to study Mars’ atmosphere, while Schiaparelli was intended to test technologies for future missions to Mars. Unfortunately, Schiaparelli crashed during its descent to Mars surface.
The second stage of ExoMars will see the launch of a rover and surface platform in 2020. The rover, named Kazachok after a Russian folk dance, will search for signs of life on Mars. It will be equipped with a drill to collect samples from up to two metres below the Martian surface – depths where any preserved organic matter is likely to be found. These samples will then be analysed by instruments on board Kazachok and on the surface platform.
ExoMars is an important step in our exploration of Mars and our search for life beyond Earth. This mission will help us to better understand our place in the Universe and whether we are alone in it or not.