Amendment 21: New Opportunity in C.27 Mars 2020 Returned Sample Science PSP

Amendment 21 creates a new opportunity in C.27 Returned Sample Science Participating Scientist Program

The preparation of a cache of Martian rock and regolith samples for possible return to Earth via a future mission is a central objective of the Mars 2020 mission. The Returned Sample Science Participating Scientist (RSS PS) program seeks individuals whose addition to the mission’s science team will enhance the value of the samples to be selected, characterized, and cached by the Mars 2020 Rover. The selected investigators should anticipate the needs of future investigators who may analyze these samples for a very diverse range of studies in Earth-based laboratories. Selected RSSPSs will become members of the Mars 2020 Science Team and are expected to contribute collaboratively to any and all aspects of the surface science mission. Specifically, RSSPSs are sought to contribute to the following Mars 2020 science team efforts:

a) Identify, articulate and prioritize the scientific questions that may potentially be addressed through analysis of returned samples cached by the Mars 2020 Rover at its selected landing site.

b) Using the rover’s instruments, characterize the geology of the landing site and its past habitability and potential for preservation of biosignatures.

c) Informed by the observations in b), identify individual samples and suites of samples that can best meet the priorities identified in a).

d) Prepare detailed "field notes" that document both the geologic context and the rationale used for sample selection to a level that justifies return of samples to Earth.

e) Participate in Science Team meetings and training events.

f) Regularly contribute to daily rover operations during the surface mission, including serving in at least one operational role.

Mandatory NOIs due by August 20, 2018, and proposals are due by October 19, 2018.

Questions concerning this program element may be directed to Mitch Schulte at Mitchell.D.Schulte@nasa.gov.