NASA’s $100M EscaPADE Mission Aims to Unlock Mars’ Ancient Atmosphere
NASA's EscaPADE mission, part of the SIMPLEx program, is set to launch on Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, its maiden flight with valuable cargo. With a cost under $100 million, it aims to be the first successful low-cost mission, investigating Mars' atmospheric loss billions of years ago.
EscaPADE, a twin spacecraft, will first orbit Lagrange Point 2, 1.5 million kilometers from Earth, before heading to Mars in 2026. Its unique 'launch-and-loiter' approach allows it to launch any day and still reach Mars with fuel to spare. This mission could pave the way for future low-cost planetary exploration by companies like SpaceX. However, it carries risks due to spacecraft wear and tear during the extended orbit.
The mission's cost is significantly lower than other NASA satellites orbiting Mars, which typically range from $300 million to $600 million. EscaPADE's launch could be affected by the ongoing government shutdown if delayed after this weekend.
EscaPADE, set to launch on Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, could be a game-changer for low-cost planetary exploration. Its investigation into Mars' atmospheric loss billions of years ago may provide valuable insights, despite the risks associated with its extended orbit.
