China’s Tianwen-3 Mars sample return mission targets 2031, ahead of NASA, ESA

China’s space program is on track to achieve a major milestone by becoming the first country to bring Martian rock samples to Earth by 2031. According to reports, the mission named Tianwen-3 is being led by the China National Space Administration (CNSA). Its goal is to surpass the Mars sample return efforts planned by NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), which are scheduled for the 2040s.

In a study published in National Science Review, researchers from China’s Deep Space Exploration Laboratory and partner institutions detailed the outlines of the mission. Dual spacecraft operations include a lander, ascent vehicle, orbiter, and return module. According to Space News, while addressing the International Astronautical Congress in September, Tianwen-3 chief designer Liu Jizhong confirmed that the launch is scheduled for 2028.

Mission Overview and Objectives

The Tianwen-3 mission is designed to collect rock and sediment samples from the surface of Mars, using advanced robotics such as a helicopter and a six-legged rover to enhance sampling capabilities. Zengqian Hou, a researcher at the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory and the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, told National Science Review that 86 potential landing sites are under consideration. These sites are concentrated in Chris Planitia and Utopia Planitia, areas recognized for their promising geological history and terrain favorable for landing.

The primary focus of the mission is to search for signs of ancient Martian life. It is believed that the rocks and sediments in these areas contain preserved traces of the planet’s past biological activity.

Comparison with global efforts

China’s plans put it years ahead of NASA and ESA, whose joint Mars sample return mission was recently delayed. Reportedly, the current timeline indicates that NASA’s lander could launch by 2035, and samples are expected to be returned by 2040.

The initiative follows China’s success with the Chang’e-6 lunar mission, which returned samples from the far side of the Moon and revealed evidence of recent volcanic activity, underscoring the country’s growing capabilities in space exploration.