Mars 2016
Full Name: Mars 2016
Phase: Under study
Launch Date: 2016
Program(s): Mars Exploration
In 2016, the Astrobiology Field Laboratory (AFL), a pair of Mid-Rovers, or a set of three to four long-lived landers is planned for launch with the results of Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO’s) and Mars Science Laboratory's (MSL’s) investigations determining which mission is developed. “Mid-” refers to size: in between the diminutive Sojourner and the subcompact car-sized MSL. If MSL finds evidence of organic matter or habitable zones in the surface or near subsurface, then AFL will be launched to characterize, in detail, putative biomarkers to determine whether, in fact, there is a connection with prebiotic chemistry or living organisms.
Astrobiology Field Laboratory (AFL) is to be a rover, based closely on MSL, but with a payload focused on the detection and characterization of biomarkers with the next-generation sample-processing system. If MSL and MRO discoveries show that the need to understand the spatial diversity (including geology, geochemistry, geophysics, astrobiology) of Mars is more compelling than the need to investigate a single site in detail, then either a pair of Mid-Rovers or a network of landers may be a more logical choice.
The Mid-Rovers are anticipated to be MER-like in capability but with an updated instrument suite. Their landing sites will be identified as having high scientific interest from MRO observations.
The ML3N is conceived of as a network of landers equipped to perform meteorological and geophysical measurements. This mission concept has been highly rated by the NRC Decadal Survey. With international collaboration, an earlier launch of a network mission could be accomplished. Mars sample return is an important mission, also highly rated by the NRC decadal survey. This mission is anticipated as an early third decade mission due to its complexity and cost, and will undoubtedly require significant international collaboration. This is also an important mission in support of the Vision as a preparatory and safety assessment mission for the first human landing.