description ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter Overview
ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter is a collaborative Mars mission launched in 2016 by the European Space Agency (ESA) and Roscosmos. It orbits Mars to study trace atmospheric gases, such as methane and water vapor, which could indicate geological or biological activity, while serving as a critical data relay for surface rovers like Curiosity and Perseverance.
help ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter FAQ
Why does ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter search for methane?
Methane and other trace gases can reveal active chemical processes beneath or on the Martian surface, although methane alone does not prove biological activity. The mission also measures gases such as water vapor and tracks their geographic and seasonal distribution. [ESA ExoMars FAQ](https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/Exploration/ExoMars/ExoMars_2016_FAQs)
Who built and launched ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter?
It was developed through the ESA and Roscosmos ExoMars partnership and launched on March 14, 2016. The launch carried both the Trace Gas Orbiter and the Schiaparelli entry, descent, and landing demonstrator. [ESA ExoMars FAQ](https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/Exploration/ExoMars/ExoMars_2016_FAQs)
What happened to Schiaparelli while TGO reached Mars orbit?
Schiaparelli lost its landing attempt during descent in October 2016, but the Trace Gas Orbiter remained in the Mars system. TGO then used aerobraking to lower itself into its intended science orbit. [ESA operations report](https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Operations/ExoMars_TGO_operations)
Does ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter relay data from Mars surface missions?
Yes. TGO was designed to provide data-relay services for Mars missions, including NASA's Curiosity and InSight landers and the Opportunity rover. That communications role is separate from its atmospheric science work. [ESA operations report](https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Operations/ExoMars_TGO_operations)
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