Chennai, March 30, 2026 – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) today unveiled ambitious plans for its second Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM-2), set to launch in late 2028. Speaking at a press conference this morning, ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somnath outlined the mission's objectives, which include advanced studies of the Martian atmosphere, surface geology, and potential for past or present microbial life. This announcement comes on the heels of the successful completion of MOM-1's extended mission, solidifying India's position as a key player in space exploration.

MOM-2: A Leap Forward in Martian Exploration

Building on the experience gained from the first Mars Orbiter Mission, MOM-2 will feature a more sophisticated suite of scientific instruments. Dr. V. Narayanan, Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), explained that the orbiter will carry a high-resolution imager, a hyperspectral mapper for mineralogical analysis, a magnetometer, and a lander probe designed to study the Martian subsurface. The lander probe will be equipped with a drill to collect samples from beneath the surface, which will then be analyzed by onboard instruments. The data collected will provide unprecedented insights into the composition and history of Mars. The rover will explore and send key information back to Earth.

Mission Objectives and Technological Advancements

The primary objectives of MOM-2 are to further characterize the Martian environment and search for evidence of extant or extinct life. The mission will also focus on understanding the processes that have shaped the Martian surface over billions of years. "MOM-2 represents a significant advancement in our capabilities for planetary exploration," reportersays Dr. Somnath. "We are incorporating several new technologies, including advanced propulsion systems and autonomous navigation, to enhance the mission's efficiency and robustness." These advancements will not only benefit future Mars missions but also contribute to India's broader space program.

India Availability and Expected Cost

The development and launch of MOM-2 are entirely indigenous, with contributions from various ISRO centers and academic institutions across India. While the final cost is still being calculated, ISRO estimates that MOM-2 will cost approximately INR 450 crore (USD 55 million). This makes it one of the most cost-effective Mars missions ever undertaken. "We are committed to maximizing the scientific return on investment," stated Dr. Narayanan. "By leveraging our expertise in frugal engineering, we can achieve significant results with limited resources." Data from the mission will be made publicly available to researchers worldwide, fostering international collaboration.

Comparison with Other Mars Missions

Compared to missions like NASA's Perseverance rover and the European Space Agency's ExoMars program, MOM-2 offers a unique approach by combining orbital observations with subsurface exploration via the lander probe. While Perseverance focuses on searching for biosignatures on the surface, MOM-2 will delve deeper, potentially uncovering evidence of life that may have existed beneath the surface, shielded from the harsh radiation environment. The lander will be equipped with a drill to collect samples that are about 2 meters beneath the surface. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of MOM-2 makes it a highly competitive mission, demonstrating India's ability to achieve ambitious scientific goals on a budget. India's space program is quickly evolving, and this mission should prove to be a great success.