Canada heading for Mars exploration

Recently, former astronaut Marc Garneau expressed Canada's interest in Mars exploration. He made this announcement as executive vice President of the Candian Space Agency at the 3rd Canadian Space exploration Workshop. The agency has been wanting to expand its space exploration for quite some time now and believes it needs to focus on Mars. He implies that an increase in funding is on the way for this mission, even though the full total cost is still unknown. "We have the expertise, it's highly visible, and there is momentum," Garneau said. They have not yet decided whether to send an orbiter or lander. Ultimately, Canada looks to increase its reputation and status in space exploration, hoping to catchup with Russia, China, and the United States someday.