Airbus UK to design and build ExoMars lander

Airbus in the UK has been awarded the contract to build the ExoMars lander, which will transport the Rosalind Franklin rover to the surface of Mars. The contract, coming from the European Space Agency and Thales Alenia Space (TAS), is a significant step towards delivering the rover to Mars in 2030. This joint venture between Thales and Leonardo aims to ensure a successful landing and deployment of the rover on the Martian surface.

The ExoMars project, initially a collaboration with Russia, has faced delays due to the conflict in Ukraine and subsequent sanctions. Despite these challenges, Airbus UK is committed to overcoming obstacles and achieving the ambitious goal of landing the rover on Mars. The project represents a culmination of over two decades of work and international cooperation.

“Getting the Rosalind Franklin rover onto the surface of Mars is a huge international challenge and the culmination of more than 20 years’ work,” said Kata Escott, Managing Director of Airbus Defence and Space UK. The rover, already built by Airbus in Stevenage and delivered in 2019, will undergo upgrades before its scheduled launch in 2028. These upgrades include new software modes and accommodations for Radioisotope Heater Units (RHUs) provided by NASA.

Airbus will be responsible for designing the mechanical, thermal, and propulsion systems for the landing platform. This includes developing a large propulsion system to ensure a safe landing on Mars. The lander will utilize retro rockets to slow down from 45m/s to less than 3m/s before touchdown. Additionally, the lander will feature two ramps to facilitate the deployment of the rover onto the Martian surface.

The Airbus teams in Stevenage have a wealth of experience in designing and building propulsion systems for various spacecraft missions. With a track record of over 120 propulsion systems for more than 90 spacecraft, Airbus is well-equipped to handle the complexities of the ExoMars mission. Their expertise spans across different propulsion technologies, including chemical, electric, and cold gas systems.

The ExoMars rover is scheduled to land on Mars in 2030, strategically avoiding the planet’s global dust season. This careful planning and execution are crucial for the success of the mission, as the rover embarks on its journey to search for signs of life on the Red Planet. The collaboration between Airbus, the European Space Agency, and Thales Alenia Space marks a significant milestone in space exploration and underscores the importance of international partnerships in advancing our understanding of the universe.