Trace Gas Orbiter

space probe

Also known as: TGO

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July 21, 2026

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The Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) is a joint mission between the European Space Agency (ESA) and Roscosmos, designed to study the Martian atmosphere. Launched in 2016, it arrived at Mars in 2016 and began its primary mission in 2018. The TGO's main goal is to detect and map trace gases in the Martian atmosphere, such as methane, which could potentially indicate geological or biological activity. It also studies water vapor and the distribution of dust and clouds.

The orbiter carries advanced scientific instruments, including a camera, a spectrometer, and a high-resolution gas analyzer. These instruments allow it to provide detailed insights into atmospheric processes on Mars. The TGO is part of the larger ExoMars program, which aims to explore the Red Planet for signs of past or present life.12

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Mars
Spacecraft exploration
…and consisted of two spacecraft—the Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and the Schiaparelli lander. Schiaparelli ejected its parachute early and crashed into the surface. The TGO mapped the vertical distribution of dust and water vapor in the atmosphere. It did not detect any methane, which conflicted with Curiosity’s detection and suggests…
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…and consisted of two spacecraft—the Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and the Schiaparelli lander. Schiaparelli ejected its parachute early and crashed into the surface. The TGO mapped the vertical distribution of dust and water vapor in the atmosphere. It did not detect any methane, which conflicted with Curiosity’s detection and suggests…
Read More