Chinese scientists have revealed new details of their project to return Martian samples: the stationary landing module will not only be equipped with a drill and robotic arm, but also a helicopter drone with a robotic arm and “claw.” The launch of two Long March 5B rockets is scheduled for 2028, and the return of at least 500 g of Martian soil and rock is scheduled for 2031.
The ground module will collect samples near the landing site: a robotic arm will collect surface material, and a drill will extract rock from a depth of up to 2 m, where conditions are more favorable for possible biosignatures. The helicopter drone will expand the range of exploration: it will be able to fly more than 100 meters, search for larger rock fragments, grab them with its “claw,” and deliver them to the capsule of the lifting device. This approach can cover different geological environments without being limited to one site.
To avoid contamination from Earth or distortion of Martian samples, a team is already developing a comprehensive planetary protection protocol in accordance with COSPAR recommendations. After returning, the material will be processed in an extremely clean bio-containment laboratory, and sampling on Mars will be carried out using sterile instruments, which reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
The return delivery of soil and rock samples from two different Martian layers (surface + subsoil) will open an unprecedented “time window” into the geological history of the Red Planet. Comparison with terrestrial analogues will help track the evolution of the crust, assess water activity, and estimate the amount of organic carbon. The data obtained will not only refine models of Earth-like planet formation, but will also serve as a guide for future astronauts — from selecting resource deposits to developing biosecurity measures for long-term Mars missions. Thus, Tianwen-3 will strengthen cooperation among international planetary scientists and provide a critically important “standard” of real Martian rocks for ground-based laboratories around the world.
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