NASA is currently evaluating two options for transporting Mars soil samples collected by the Perseverance rover back to Earth, with a decision anticipated in 2026.

Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator, believes that pursuing these two pathways could lead to significant savings in cost and schedule compared to previous plans.

To proceed with analyzing both options, Congress must approve a preliminary budget of $300 million for fiscal year 2025.

NASA plans to enhance the mission's resilience by using a nuclear battery for the lander's energy needs, replacing vulnerable solar panels.

The revised NASA-led mission is projected to cost between $6.6 billion and $7.7 billion, with sample return expected by 2039.

The mission will explore two distinct landing methods: one utilizing the sky crane technique from previous missions and another leveraging new commercial capabilities.

Experts express concern over the potential cancellation of the mission under the new administration, stressing the urgency for decisive action.

Budget cuts have already impacted the mission, leading to layoffs of 855 employees and 100 contractors at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 2024.

Originally, the mission aimed to deliver 30 sample tubes by the 2030s, but it is now facing rising costs and delays, prompting a reevaluation of strategies.

The Mars Sample Return mission is regarded as a top priority by planetary scientists, who emphasize its significance for U.S. leadership in space science.

The incoming Trump administration is expected to prioritize speed and results in NASA's space programs, which could influence the MSR timeline.

With China advancing its own Mars sample return mission, Tianwen-3, expected to launch around 2028, competition concerns are rising for NASA's efforts.