The race to Mars, and why it matters

Outlet: Arab News

Language: English

Abstract: Recent Mars missions have broadened their focus beyond the planet's geology and potential habitability, now targeting what lies above its surface. The UAE's Hope probe and China's Tianwen-1 mission are prime examples. While Hope studies atmospheric composition, Tianwen-1's orbiter aims to map Mars's magnetic fields alongside surface findings. This shift reflects a global push towards monumental achievements: finding extraterrestrial life and eventually landing humans on Mars. Unmanned missions remain the norm due to logistical challenges, but advancing technology and decreasing costs, spurred by private ventures like SpaceX, are reshaping the space landscape. Despite risks, the race for Mars continues, with eyes on scientific breakthroughs, commercial opportunities, and strategic advantages in interplanetary travel.

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