Rocket Lab is now one step closer to reaching Mars after NASA approved Rocket Lab's Photon spacecraft. This will be a future science mission. If everything goes according to plan, the two craft will launch in 2024. They will arrive on Mars 11 months later to study the planet's magnetosphere.
This mission is called Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamic Explorers (or ESCAPADE). It was originally proposed in 2019 for a small satellite science program, and eventually selected as a finalist. The science component is led by UC Berkeley researchers.
These satellites must weigh less than 180 kg (roughly 400 pounds) and perform independent science missions. This is part of a new program that aims to create shorter, lighter lead missions that can be done with strong collaboration from the commercial sector. ESCAPADE has been working on a few ideas since its initial announcement. Key Decision Point C was passed, which means that it is ready to move from concept to reality.
This mission actually involves two satellites. A perk that contributed to its success. Rocket Labs Photon program aims to offer a complete design solution for space operations, including orbital work and interplanetary science missions.
Rocket Lab will not launch the mission on one of its Electron rockets. Instead, the satellites will be launched from a commercial launch vehicle provided by NASA. Rocket Lab may be in contention for the contract by then, but Rocket Lab is currently building the spacecraft. This includes most of the nonscientific components such as navigation, orientation and propulsion.
ESCAPADE, an innovative mission that demonstrates interplanetary science can be achieved at a fraction the cost of traditional methods, is a mission we are proud to have made possible through Photon. Rocket Lab founder and CEO Peter Beck said that they were delighted to be given NASA's approval to fly.
Rocket Lab has already signed a contract to lift CubeSat into cislunar orbit to Artemis's benefit. Varda Space Industries has also agreed to build the spacecraft. Launches are scheduled for 2023 and 2024.
