TORONTO, March 10, 2016 – The next robotic visitor from Earth to Mars is about to begin its long journey. The much-awaited launch of ExoMars 2016, a collaborative venture between the European Space Agency and the Russian Space Federation, is scheduled for Monday, March 14, 2016.
The mission consists of a Trace Gas Orbiter and a lander called Schiaparelli, both of which should arrive at Mars in October 2016. The goal is to search for methane and other gases in the Martian atmosphere that would indicate the existence of life, as as well to test key technologies for subsequent missions to the planet.
"Mars remains a destination of intense interest for scientists and the public alike,” says Paul Delaney, director of the York University Astronomical Observatory and the Division of Natural Science in the Faculty of Science. “Any time a lander is destined for the surface, the challenges and rewards are higher, so ExoMars 2016 will be an exciting mission to follow.”
The following York U experts are available to comment on the mission:
- Paul Delaney, director of the York University Astronomical Observatory and the Division of Natural Science, Faculty of Science
- Jesse Rogerson, PhD candidate in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science. Available by phone or Face Time.
York University is known for championing new ways of thinking that drive teaching and research excellence. Our 52,000 students receive the education they need to create big ideas that make an impact on the world. Meaningful and sometimes unexpected careers result from cross-discipline programming, innovative course design and diverse experiential learning opportunities. York students and graduates push limits, achieve goals and find solutions to the world’s most pressing social challenges, empowered by a strong community that opens minds. York U is an internationally recognized research university – our 11 faculties and 24 research centres have partnerships with 200+ leading universities worldwide.
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Media Contacts:
Sandra McLean, York University Media Relations, 416-736-2100 ext. 22097 / sandramc@yorku.ca
