Chinese scientists build model Mars atmosphere to aid sample-return plans

A golden rover and dark-colored lander sit on the red martian surface, with a dusty reddish-brown sky in the background.

Chinese scientists have constructed a numerical model to simulate the Martian atmosphere and thus assist the country's plans to collect rock samples from the Red Planet. 

The model replicates the cycles of dust, water and carbon dioxide in Mars' atmosphere. It will be used to simulate meteorological conditions for landing spacecraft, including surface temperature, wind and dust. The study was recently published in the journal Chinese Science Bulletin.