ESA initially designed the Mars rover alongside Roscosmos, Russias space agency, as part of the ExoMars programme.
The British government will fund the lander via the UK Space Agency.
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The ExoMars spacecraft is set to launch from the US in 2028.
Arrival on Mars is expected by 2030.
If successful, it will be Europes first rover to be sent to Mars.

A combination of a heat shield, parachutes, and braking rockets will slow down the landerjust before touchdown.
Its designed to operate for at least seven months.
These RHUs use radioactive decay to generate heat, preventing the rover from freezing in the frigid Martian environment.

Story bySion Geschwindt
Sion is a freelance science and technology reporter, specialising in climate and energy.
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