NASA has to pause its Mars Sample Return program after an independent review reported costs soaring between $8 billion and $11 billion, exceeding budget.
The agency is evaluating two methods for sample retrieval: a 'sky crane' that mimics past missions, or a collaboration with commercial companies, including SpaceX.
With budget cuts forcing significant workforce reductions, NASA aims for an efficient yet innovative approach to ensure Martian samples arrive on Earth expediently.
Despite budget constraints and staffing cuts, NASA continues to push for a solution that allows for sample return, although it may not be viable by 2040.
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