August 6, 2026

NASA is testing a lightweight radar antenna that could allow future Mars helicopters to investigate what lies beneath the Martian surface.

NASA is developing new technology that could give future Mars helicopters an unusual scientific capability: looking beneath the planet’s surface.

Engineers are testing a lightweight, fabric-based radar antenna intended for the SkyFall mission. The planned mission is designed to send three advanced rotorcraft to Mars, where they could use ground-penetrating radar to investigate the Martian subsurface.

Radar technology could help scientists search for underground structures and deposits, including frozen water. Understanding where water exists on Mars is important because it could provide clues about the planet’s history and potentially support future exploration.

The new antenna is designed to provide the necessary radar capability without adding excessive weight to the aircraft. Weight is especially important for Mars helicopters because the planet’s atmosphere is much thinner than Earth’s, making flight significantly more difficult.

The technology builds on NASA’s experience with Ingenuity, the first aircraft to achieve powered, controlled flight on another planet.

NASA Source: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory — “NASA Tests Featherweight Radar Antenna for SkyFall Mars Helicopters”

Source: NASA / NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Article: Written by JC Valino