Several space missions have been delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic. And it’s especially sad for Mars-bound spacecraft, as the next launch window is not for 2 years.
Delayed missions include: James Webb Space telescope; Artemis manned lunar landing; SLS and Orion; ExoMars. Current European orbiters Mars Express and Trace Gas Orbiter have been placed in stand-by mode. In addition, SpaceX has closed facilities; Bigelow Aerospace is in financial trouble; ALMA telescopes in Chile are closed.
But NASA’s Mars Perseverance rover, UAE’s Hope orbiter and a Chinese lander and orbiter will launch to Mars mid-year, as planned.
