Planetary protection aims to prevent contamination of Earth and other planetary bodies by alien microbial life and vice versa during space missions.
This principle ensures that planetary environments remain 'pristine' and free from Earth-origin microbes that could interfere with scientific investigations or alter alien ecosystems.
Article IX of the Outer Space Treaty (1967) mandates avoiding harmful contamination of both Earth and other celestial bodies during space exploration.
To comply with planetary protection, spacecraft are often sterilized, such as by baking them at high temperatures in a dry room for several days.
This process increases mission costs and requires advanced technical measures.
China’s Tianwen-3 mission to Mars, planned for 2028, will follow planetary protection protocols to ensure compliance with international standards.
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