Sample Return Mission estimated to cost $ 5 bio. or more

Under www.marssociety.de there is an article today reporting that iMARS has found that a Sample Return Mission to Mars takes ten years at least from decision to launch and will cost $ 5 billion or more.

The sample will weigh 500 g.

During the two years ahead of now this will be more detailed and checked.

What about this? In particular under the aspect that Mars Direct alread has been said to require around $ 50 bio.?

What in particular do you think, Richard Speck?

A sample return mission to get 500 kg of martian dust or rocks compared to a manned mission lasting half a year with the chance to get much more than 500 kg of martian dirt and small rocks.

Doesn't this sound as if the more proper method might be to further and develop/evolve private space flight?



Dipl.-Volkswirt (bdvb) Augustin (Political Economist)