This is a Mars exploration mission designed to clarify the origin of the Martian moons and the process of evolution for the Mars region. It is planned for the mission to observe Mars’ two moons, Phobos and Deimos, and to return to the Earth with a sample collected from one of these moons. The mission is being developed with an eye on a launch in the middle 2020s.
Mars has two moons called Phobos and Deimos. The probe will enter the quasi satellite orbit (QSO) of the Martian moons and then observe them and collect samples. Investigations are being made into the possible scenario of returning the probe to the Earth with its samples once the probe has completed its observations and collection.
It is hoped that this research and development will lead to improvements in technology needed for future planetary and lunar probes, optimal communications technology using new ground-based probe stations, advanced sampling technology for the surface of astronomical objects, and technology for travel between Mars and the Earth.
The mission may also be able to elucidate the process of the evolution of the Mars region (including Mars, Phobos, and Deimos) and the origin of the Martian moons and obtain the key to understanding the mysteries of the formation of the planets in the solar system.
DevelopingMartian Moons eXploration (MMX)
Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) focus on the Martian moons. The spacecraft will make close-up remote sensing and in-situ observations of both moons, and collect a sample from one of the moons to bring back to Earth.