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ESA's Mars Express to aid Japan's Phobos mission
Original: Veteran ESA probe rolls out welcome mat for Japan's Phobos mission Mars Express could support MMX's 2027 arrival as anot
Europe's long-serving Mars Express orbiter could help support Japan's Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission when it reaches Mars in 2027, as ESA grants the veteran spacecraft another extension of its operations. The probe, in orbit since 2003, continues to deliver science while taking on new roles, with plans for it to assist communications or observations during MMX's study of Mars's moon Phobos.
Why now: Space agencies are coordinating support for Japan's upcoming Phobos sample-return mission while extending the life of an unexpectedly durable orbiter.
Evidence
- Veteran ESA probe rolls out welcome mat for Japan's Phobos mission Mars Express could support MMX's 2027 arrival as another 'last ever' extension keeps old spacecraft in flight https://www. theregister.com/science/2026/1… · techwire@gamefan.net · 2
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