ESA's Mars Express: The Search for Life and the Mystery of Beagle 2

The European Space Agency has launched its first probe, Mars Express, to Mars to search for signs of life. The probe, launched atop a Russian Soyuz booster, is in orbit, but the fate of its lander, Beagle 2, is unknown. The Mars Express orbiter is intended to relay communications for Beagle 2, but until its orbit is correct, NASA's Odyssey was to be used. No signals have been received from Beagle 2, and its status is uncertain. Efforts to locate it using radio telescopes have been unsuccessful. Mars Express will continue to monitor Mars's climate and atmosphere and attempt to relay signals from Beagle 2. ESA officials remain hopeful of establishing contact.

What is the primary mission of the Mars Express probe?

What is the current status of the Beagle 2 Lander?

How is the Mars Express orbiter expected to assist the Beagle 2 Lander?

What challenges have been faced in establishing communication with the Beagle 2?

What ongoing efforts are being made by the ESA regarding the Beagle 2?