In the age of video conferencing, having in-person meetings about Mars exploration is even more crucial when it comes to maximise the scientific return.

For the second time, the NASA/ESA Mars Sample Return Campaign Science Group met to build an effective strategy to support the NASA and ESA Lead Scientists behind this complex set of missions. 

Less than a month after the first sample depot was completed on Mars by the Perseverance rover, the group convened at the Centro de Astrobiología in Madrid, Spain, from 21 to 23 February 2023.

The members, selected through an open competitive process last year, discussed the science objectives for the Sample Receiving Project, research and developments necessary to be ready for the samples, and prepared to set up a Measurement Definition Team. 

Family portrait of the Mars Sample Return Campaign Science Group during a meeting at the Centro de Astrobiología in February 2023. Credits: CAB

There were lively and detailed discussions on how to extract the solid Mars samples, as well as any martian atmosphere from the tubes without compromising their quality. 

Stay tuned for the upcoming open and competitive Announcement of Opportunity for a future Measurement Definition Team!