Space Race: Who Gets to Build the Mars Phone Booth?

"The United States government has just issued a draft request for ideas on how to build a new spacecraft that will keep the planet Mars talking back to Earth. The plan, which could be awarded as early as fiscal year 2026, was introduced by Senator Ted Cruz. He put a $700 million budget on the table for an orbiter that would act like a giant radio relay, helping future missions stay in contact with us. \n\nWhat makes the story interesting is that the draft isn’t a call for bids yet. Instead, it asks companies and anyone interested to give feedback on the mission’s main goals. The official document lists four big objectives: keep data flowing between Mars, its surface and Earth; give precise positioning help for orbiters; support current missions already flying around Mars; and provide communication services to future landing tests. \n\nThe name of the craft has also changed—from the Mars Telecommunications Orbiter to the Mars Telecommunications Network—hinting that NASA is still tweaking its plans. But one of the most debated parts is whether science equipment should be added to the ship. \n\nInside the draft, 14 “ground rules” are listed. The last one says that a science payload is not forbidden, but it must not jeopardise the launch schedule. In plain terms: NASA will accept science instruments if they can be fitted without delaying the 2028 launch.Some experts say a handful of experiments—like a high‑resolution camera or a magnetometer to study Mars’ magnetic field—could fit in for about $200 million. \n\nThe competition for the contract is already heating up. Rocket Lab, Blue Origin and SpaceX are all vying to win, each touting their own technology. Lockheed Martin also wants a piece of the action with its proven track record on Mars missions. \n\nJust last week, NASA awarded a small contract to Rocket Lab for studying “Mars End‑to‑End Communication Service Architectures. ” While the money is modest, it signals that NASA values Rocket Lab’s ideas. Some observers worry this could create a conflict of interest, because the same NASA office that is considering the new orbiter also gave Rocket Lab this contract. \n\nIf NASA moves too slowly, it risks missing the 2028 launch window that would let us send a new orbiter to Mars before other plans change. Contractors who disagree with the final decision could file protests, which would stall the project for months and likely derail the mission. \n\nIn short, the next Mars communication hub is still a work in progress. The debate over science payloads, contractor rivalry and timing all add layers of complexity to a project that could open a new era of space exploration. \n\n