NASA Partners with Eric Schmidt’s Relativity Space to Launch Mars Orbiter Mission

NASA is collaborating with Relativity Space, under the leadership of former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, on a mission to send an orbiter to Mars named Aeolus. Much like its existing collaborations with SpaceX and other private entities, NASA will depend on Relativity Space to transport its scientific payload to Mars. The company will handle the spacecraft, rocket, and cruise operations, with plans for a launch in 2028.

Aeolus aims to enhance understanding of the Martian atmosphere, building on findings from past missions like the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, Mars Odyssey, and MAVEN, which has recently ceased communication. The orbiter will carry four specialized instruments designed to deliver comprehensive daily insights on Martian winds, temperatures, dust, and cloud formations.

The initial instrument is the Doppler Wind and Temperature Sounder (DWTS-Ozone), which will track wind and temperature profiles. Additionally, the Thermal Limb Sounder (TLS) will provide vertical temperature profiles while observing dust and water-ice clouds. The Surface Radiometric Sensor Package (SuRSeP) will examine surface energy balance and the properties of dust and clouds. Lastly, the Wide-Field Context Camera (WFCC) will capture global images of atmospheric phenomena on a daily basis. These instruments will be developed by scientists at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California.

By gaining insights into Martian dust, winds, temperatures, and seasonal atmospheric dynamics, NASA aims to mitigate risks for both crewed and uncrewed landings in the future. Data collected from this mission will assist NASA and its commercial partners in refining the entry, descent, and landing systems for future spacecraft.

Aeolus is expected to serve as a demonstration for upcoming missions within the company’s Interplanetary Sciences Program. However, Relativity Space has yet to provide specific details about the spacecraft and rocket for this mission and hasn’t showcased its ability to undertake such significant projects. Schmidt acquired Relativity Space in March 2025, and shortly after, he revealed his plans for the company to establish data centers in orbit.