Mars Exploration Program

Mars Exploration Program (MEP) is a long-term effort to explore the planet Mars, funded and led by NASA. Formed in 1993, MEP has made use of orbital spacecraft, landers, and Mars rovers to explore the possibilities of life on Mars, as well as the planet's climate and natural resources.^[1] The program is managed by NASA's Science Mission Directorate by Doug McCuistion of the Planetary Science Division.^[2] As a result of 40% cuts to NASA's budget for fiscal year 2013, the Mars Program Planning Group (MPPG) was formed to help reformulate the MEP, bringing together leaders of NASA's technology, science, human operations, and science missions.^[3]^[4]

^ Shirley, Donna. "Mars Exploration Program Strategy: 1995–2020" (PDF). American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Archived from the original (PDF) on May 11, 2013. Retrieved October 18, 2012.
^ McCuistion, Doug. "Doug McCuistion, Director, NASA Mars Exploration Program". NASA. Archived from the original on October 19, 2015. Retrieved October 18, 2012.
^ Hubbard, G. Scott (August 28, 2012). "A Next Decade Mars Program". The Huffington Post. Retrieved October 18, 2012.
^ Garvin, James. "About the Mars Program Planning Group". NASA. Retrieved October 18, 2012.