UK technology minister next to ExoMars rover mockup

UK Technology Secretary Peter Kyle next to a mockup of the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover on display at Airbus's facility in Stevenage in the United Kingdom.

This robot is used to demonstrate key technologies that Europe needs to master for future planetary exploration missions. This includes moving on the surface, collecting sample tubes and martian soil, and analysing samples autonomously.

In 2028, ESA will launch this ambitious exploration mission to search for past and present signs of life on Mars. Rosalind Franklin will be the first rover to drill to a depth of up to two metres below the martian surface, acquiring samples buried underground and protected from surface radiation and extreme temperatures.

ESA has selected Airbus to design and build the landing platform for the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover. Airbus will build the key systems for the ExoMars lander under contract with Thales Alenia Space (TAS), the lead industrial partner for the Rosalind Franklin mission.