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ScienceApr 17, 2026WinWinner: SpaceXAwarded by: NASAMajor Win

NASA selects Falcon Heavy to launch ESA Mars rover mission despite budget threat

NASA selects Falcon Heavy to launch ESA Mars rover mission despite budget threat
Image source: SpaceNews
Story Brief

NASA chose Falcon Heavy to launch ESA's Rosalind Franklin rover in 2028, keeping the ExoMars revival moving even as the agency again proposes cutting its support budget.

The selection locks in the launcher for one of Europe's highest-profile science missions after years of delay and redesign.

NASA approved the ROSA support project for implementation on April 16, covering the U.S. hardware and services needed to fly the rover.

Win Signal

Winner: SpaceX

Awarding entity: NASA

Impact level: Major win

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Mars Rover Science