EXOMARS

EXOMARS is classified as:

Space & Earth Science

NORAD ID: 41388

Int'l Code: 2016-017A

Launch date: March 14, 2016
Source: European Space Agency (ESA)
Launch site: TYURATAM MISSILE AND SPACE COMPLEX (TTMTR)

EXOMARS is a European-built space probe on a mission to test future landing technologies and search for methane, a potential signature of microbial life. Named ExoMars, the program is a partnership between Europe and Russia, which agreed to provide rocket rides in 2016 and 2018 for back-to-back launches to Mars. The mission also aims to map Mars in high-resolution and search for hydrogen embedded in the Martian crust, a data point that suggests the presence of water at or just below the surface. A piggyback lander accompanies the orbiter on the trip, heading for an experimental descent into the Martian atmosphere in October.