2013 Mars Science Orbiter

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Name = 2013 Mars Science Orbiter


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Organization = NASA
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Mission_Type = Orbiter
Satellite_Of = Mars
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Launch = 2013
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2013 Mars Science Orbiter is the name for a standing and flexible proposal within NASA to send a new orbiter to Mars. [cite web|url=http://mepag.jpl.nasa.gov/reports/MSO_SAG2_Report_MEPAG_29may1.pdf|title=Report from the 2013 Mars Science Orbiter (MSO) Second Science Analysis Group|author=NASA|year=2007|month=May] If launched, it would be the successor to the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, which may still be operational at that time. It would be launched in 2013. A range of atmospheric and surface observations have been proposed, including small landers. [cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20070828050227/http://www.launchspace.com/articles/mso42607.shtml|title=NASA Considers Landers For Mars Science Orbiter|year=2007|month=April]

A variety of science experiments were also proposed for the Mars Scout program, which develops smaller and cheaper satellites. The MAVEN mission has been chosen by that program to launch in 2013. Such overlapping goals, similar timeframe, and the greater commitment to the Scout program, may reduce the chances of further progress on the Mars Science Orbiter.

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