China has unveiled details about its coming Mars sample return mission, including a plan to avoid biological contamination risks when employing a helicopter drone to collect surface samples and bring potential signs life back to Earth.
The Tianwen-3 mission, which is set to bring back at least 500 grams (17.6 oz) of Martian material by 2031 as part of its search for signs of life, will for the first time pair a stationary lander with a drone to extend its sampling reach, according to scientists…
