The Mars Sample Return Campaign: Engaging with the Public in a Historic Endeavor to Answer "Big Questions" about Mars

As we begin to write the next chapter of Humanity's endeavors to learn of our place in space, the Mars Sample Return Campaign (MSRC) has the ability to be one of the most important opportunities in terms of being able to shed some light on some of the most enduring questions we as Humans are asking (e.g., Are we alone?). This campaign will bring together both countries and agencies to make this campaign happen and in doing so, will bring everyday people into the realm of exciting scientific discovery.

During the 2nd International Mars Sample Return Conference, the following recommendations were made for developing MSRC public engagement strategies: Begin formulation of key MSR elements that will be of public interest and assess any related existing opinions, misconceptions (risk communication), and needs that could be relevant to our planning and communication; Beginning now, in getting ready for M2020, prepare a long-term plan for MSR education and public outreach strategies that will be inclusive of multiple audiences, will leverage technologies available, and be participatory in nature. Prepare a timeline and depository that will include major mission milestones, related scientific activities (e.g., curation preparation, analogue field trips, discoveries, spinoffs), and MSR outreach events; Identify synergistic groups that we can engage to expand our reach; Identify evaluative program mechanisms to assess impact; Involve the MSR team as our "faces of exploration" and expert advisors as we take on this amazing challenge.

There will be a high need for clear and transparent communication and public-consumable explanations about timelines and processes such as planetary protection. It is critical that processes be started to bring key mission and public engagement professionals together to plan these key strategies for the MSRC. It is imperative to get outreach protocols, practices, and public participatory opportunities defined and in place well in advance of any materials returning from Mars. Establishing a trusted, meaningful dialog with the public about the actual risks and rewards involved in the MSRC will be of the utmost importance as expand our boundaries of understanding our Humanity with this endeavor.