Welcome back to TechCrunch Space! Let’s dive into the latest Mars Sample Return news.
Have a tip to share? Reach out to Aria at aria.techcrunch@gmail.com or message us on Signal at 512-937-3988. You can also contact the TechCrunch crew at tips@techcrunch.com. For more secure communications, click here for SecureDrop instructions and encrypted messaging apps.
This week’s SOTW segment focuses on Mars Sample Return, NASA’s ambitious plan to bring Martian samples back to Earth.
From Devin Coldewey:
NASA administrator Bill Nelson deems the $11 billion, 15-year plan insufficient. This strategy shift could benefit space startups as the funding may be redirected. Nelson stated, “The $11 billion budget is too expensive, and a 2040 return date is too far away. We need to find a way ahead that is both affordable and timely.” Commercial providers are expected to be involved from the start.
Concept image of a Mars sample return helicopter. Image Credits: NASA/JPL-Caltech
Former senior SpaceX executive Tom Ochinero is teaming up with SpaceX alum-turned-VC Achal Upadhyaya and Sequoia’s finance leader Spencer Hemphill to launch Interlagos Capital, a new venture.
Interlagos, incorporated in Delaware on March 7, with a principal address in El Segundo, California, has limited public information available. Ochinero, Upadhyaya, and Hemphill are key figures in the company.
Image Credits: SpaceX
Jake Robins provides insightful commentary on Mars Sample Return. Listen to his podcast with Anthony Colangelo, Off-Nominal, here.
Illustration of Mars. Image Credits: Getty Images
On April 23, 1972, Apollo 16 astronauts John Young and Charles Duke left the lunar surface after three days of exploration. They rejoined Thomas Mattingly in lunar orbit before heading back home.
Young, Commander of the Apollo 16 mission, with the Lunar Roving Vehicle at the Descartes landing site. Photo by Duke. Image Credits: NASA
