Mystery of the Beagle 2: Investigating the Failed Mars Mission

The video discusses the Mars mission involving the Beagle 2 lander, which lost contact after separating from the Mars Express spacecraft. A report following a six-month inquiry suggests possible failure during descent due to unexpected atmospheric conditions. The European Space Agency theorizes that the Martian atmosphere was thinner than expected, affecting parachute deployment. Despite technical challenges, the probe's design was deemed sound. Recommendations include equipping landers with transmitters and public funding for high-risk missions.

What was the most likely reason for the Beagle 2 mission's failure?

• A communication error with Earth

• A failure during descent or landing

• An incorrect launch trajectory

• A technical malfunction in the spacecraft

What did the European Space Agency suggest about the Martian atmosphere?

• It was denser than expected

• It was thinner than expected

• It had no effect on the mission

• It was similar to Earth's atmosphere

How did NASA's Mars Rovers manage their descent?

• They decelerated just in time

• They failed to land successfully

• They had no issues with descent

• They used parachutes only

What was one of the recommendations from the mission report?

• To avoid high-risk missions

• To use only private funding

• To redesign the probe completely

• To equip landers with transmitters

What was concluded about the probe's design?

• It was fundamentally flawed

• It was basically sound

• It needed major revisions

• It was outdated