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Mars and the ESA Science Programme - the case for Mars polar science.
Nicolas Thomas1, P Becerra1, I B Smith2
1Physikalisches Institut, University of Bern, Sidlerstr. 5, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland.
Experimental Astronomy
|March 14, 2023
Summary
Future European Space Agency (ESA) Mars exploration should focus on polar caps and climate change. Studying Martian ice records offers insights into planetary climate evolution and solar system volatile processes.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Climate Science
- Astrobiology
Background:
- Current European Space Agency (ESA) plans for Mars focus on the NASA-led Mars Sample Return (MSR) program.
- This White Paper proposes scientific objectives for Mars investigation beyond the scope of the Human and Robotic Exploration Directorate's current plans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline key scientific objectives for future Mars investigations.
- To propose a research theme focused on Martian polar caps and recent climate change.
- To align these objectives with the ESA Science Programme.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Martian polar cap stratigraphy.
- Modeling of climate change driven by orbital parameter oscillations.
- Investigation of volatile-related dynamic processes.
Main Results:
- Identification of scientific objectives achievable by Science Directorate missions.
- A proposed research theme centered on Martian polar caps and Amazonian climate change.
- Demonstration of consistency with ESA's Science Programme goals.
Conclusions:
- Future ESA Mars science missions should prioritize the study of polar caps to understand climate history.
- Investigating Martian climate evolution provides insights into broader solar system volatile processes.
- These objectives align with and extend beyond current ESA Human and Robotic Exploration planning.
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