China on track to launch Mars sample-return mission in 2028: 'If accurate, this represents a Sputnik moment'

Science China on track to launch Mars sample-return mission in 2028: 'If accurate, this represents a Sputnik moment' Space Follow Leonard David Wed, September 9, 2026 at 10:00 AM UTC Add us on Google When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.

Both China and the United States aim to haul pristine samples of Mars to Earth in the coming years. | Credit: NASA/JPL/USGS

China is making progress on its Tianwen 3 Mars sample return mission, which aims to bring back to Earth roughly 500 grams (17.6 ounces) of Red Planet collectibles in 2031.

According to the China National Space Administration, the Tianwen 3 mission will have a lander, an ascender, a service capsule, an orbiter and an Earth reentry module.