NASA is open to exploring unconventional and out-of-the-box ideas through its Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program. The agency is currently supporting various visionary concepts, including a plan to build a telescope the size of Washington, DC on the moon. One exciting project that NASA is funding is the development of a plane designed to fly around Mars and maintain altitude in the thin Martian atmosphere. This mission, known as MAGGIE (Mars Aerial and Ground Intelligent Explorer), involves an aircraft that is capable of vertical takeoff and landing, similar to a helicopter. This innovative approach will provide a new perspective on Mars, allowing for exploration of areas of interest. While the concept of a Martian aircraft may seem far-fetched, it has gained support from NASA, with 13 awardees receiving funding for initial research. The goal is to advance space technology and bring innovative ideas to fruition, moving beyond mere science fiction. The MAGGIE craft, developed by the aerospace technology company Coflow Jet, represents a significant step in the exploration of Mars. The aircraft, powered by solar panels on its wings, offers advantages over traditional Martian rovers, as it is capable of carrying heavier payloads and relying on solar energy for power.
The Ingenuity helicopter will fly to Mars in August 2023. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / ASU / MSSS
Jezero Crater on Mars, a dry crater now being explored by NASA’s Perseverance rover. Credit: NASA
Landing a vehicle on Mars is a complex task due to its thin atmosphere, which is only about 1 percent of Earth’s volume. The challenge lies in creating the necessary lift for flight. The design of the MAGGIE plane incorporates small wings that allow for flights at higher altitudes than traditional aircraft. With the ability to travel at speeds of up to 60 meters per second (about 135 mph), the plane’s slow flight is essential in Mars’ thin atmosphere to conserve energy. Additionally, the absence of runways on Mars requires the aircraft to be capable of vertical takeoff and landing. The innovative wing design enables the plane to lift off vertically, allowing for exploration at an altitude of 3,280 meters (1,000 feet) to identify landing sites and collect samples. Despite its small size, the MAGGIE aircraft holds great potential for exploring the Red Planet, which may have once supported life. Looking ahead, Mars planes could play a crucial role in future exploration and travel, providing the opportunity to navigate and conduct research in a world without conventional transportation infrastructure.
