ESA's Mars Express to support Japan's Phobos mission MMX

Japan launched its MMX spacecraft to Phobos on October 19 aboard an H3 rocket, with arrival at Mars expected in 2027. ESA's Mars Express, in orbit since 2003, will support the mission with joint observations and imaging of the landing site. MEX's current extension runs through 2029.

• MMX launched on October 19 on an H3 rocket, arriving at Mars in 2027
• The mission aims to return about 10 g of Phobos material by 2031
• Mars Express has orbited Mars since 2003
• MEX's current mission extension is funded through 2029