Mission perspectives

Handling the Martian samples by requiring that they be subjected to a complex protocol designed to detect life, which, if present, will then be assessed for its effects on terrestrial life forms is addressed. Sample testing must be performed within facilities that ensure that such Martian organisms cannot be accidentally introduced to Earth's biosphere during the assessment process. An Orbiting Quarantine Facility (OQF) designed to permit the detection and characterization of Martian life forms, while affording the Earth and its inhabitants the maximum level of protection, is analyzed and described.