Rocket Lab Mars Mission Approved by NASA

Rocket Lab Advances Towards Mars Mission with NASA Approval

Rocket Lab is significantly closer to participating in Martian exploration following NASA’s authorization of the company’s Photon spacecraft for an upcoming scientific endeavor.

If the schedule remains on track, the launch of both spacecraft is anticipated in 2024. Their arrival at the red planet is projected for 11 months later, where they will be dedicated to studying the planet’s magnetosphere.

ESCAPADE Mission Details

The mission, formally designated as the Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers – or ESCAPADE – was initially proposed in 2019 as part of a small satellite science program. It subsequently advanced to become a finalist in the selection process.

The core scientific aspects of the mission are being spearheaded by researchers at UC Berkeley. Further details regarding the project are readily available online.

Small Satellite Program Requirements

Satellites participating in this program are subject to a weight restriction of less than 180 kilograms (approximately 400 pounds). They must also be capable of conducting independent scientific investigations.

This initiative aims to facilitate more streamlined and cost-effective missions with shorter development timelines, leveraging robust collaboration with commercial industry partners.

Several mission concepts have been under development since the program’s inception, and ESCAPADE has now successfully completed Key Decision Point C. This signifies its transition from the conceptual phase to active implementation.

Image Credits: UC Berkeley courtesy of Robert Lillis

Dual Satellite Configuration

This mission uniquely involves a pair of satellites, a feature that likely contributed to its selection. Rocket Lab’s Photon program is designed to offer a largely standardized platform for diverse space operations.

These operations range from activities in Earth orbit to interplanetary scientific missions such as this one.

Launch Vehicle and Responsibilities

Notably, Rocket Lab will not be utilizing one of its own Electron rockets for this launch. The satellites will be transported via a “NASA-provided commercial launch vehicle,” leaving the specific provider at NASA’s discretion.

While Rocket Lab may contend for the launch contract in the future, its current role is focused on spacecraft construction. This includes the majority of the non-scientific onboard systems, such as navigation, orientation, and propulsion.

“ESCAPADE is an innovative mission that demonstrates that advanced interplanetary science is now within reach for a fraction of traditional costs, and we’re proud to make it possible with Photon. We are delighted to receive the green light from NASA to proceed to flight,” stated Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab.

Additional Contracts for Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is currently contracted to deploy a CubeSat into cislunar orbit in support of the Artemis program. The company has also secured an agreement with Varda Space Industries to construct a spacecraft.

This spacecraft is scheduled for launch in both 2023 and 2024.