(NewsNation) — China is set to embark on a mission to Mars in 2028, hoping to bring back Martian soil.
Space News reported that the mission’s chief designer, Liu Jizhong, said Thursday the Chinese wanted 21 ounces of Martian soil brought home.
Initially, China planned to arrive on Mars in 2030 but has fast-tracked its expedition. This would allow for the return of soil by 2031.
Tianwen-3, the mission’s name, will involve two rocket launches from Earth and could include a robot to collect samples and a helicopter.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said in June that he believed China and the United States to be in a space race.
The U.S. currently has its Perseverance rover on Mars, where it has resided for almost four years roaming around the bottom of a crater.
Last month, it began climbing upward and, according to The Associated Press, has collected 22 rock core samples in its time on the planet.
Blue Origin’s long-delayed New Glenn rocket may see NASA miss a crucial window for a new Mars mission.
