According to NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, the SR-1 Freedom mission is related to sending a nuclear-powered spacecraft to Mars.
The spacecraft will reach Mars a year after launch and will deliver helicopters for a deeper study of the planet.
Isaacman did not disclose details regarding the number and technical specifications of the helicopters. At the same time, the "Ingenuity" helicopter explored Mars alongside the Perseverance rover from 2021 to 2024. Despite weighing approximately 1.8 kg, the helicopter completed 72 flights and demonstrated results exceeding expectations.
NASA specialists announced the helicopter's damage in January 2024, but emphasized its high effectiveness for scientific research. In the new mission, helicopters will be used to create 3D maps of Mars and to explore areas inaccessible to the rover.
