UK remains keen on Mars, but with ESA's help

The UK government should support another attempt to land a probe on Mars, but the effort must be part of a future European Space Agency mission, says the House of Commons science and technology committee's report on the failed Beagle 2 lander. "The failure of the mission has not blunted the enthusiasm of the Beagle 2 team to try again, and PPARC [Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council] has given a financial commitment to continue to support UK engagement in ESA's space exploration programme," says the report. "We hope that the government as a whole will be similarly positive about UK participation in another Mars mission."

The report criticises everyone involved in the Beagle 2 mission, focusing on the inadequate support and funding provided by the UK government and ESA.

The UK has pledged £3.5 million ($6.5 million) towards the first stage of ESA's Aurora preparatory space exploration programme.

ROB COPPINGER / LONDON

Source: Flight International