Subscribe now

Space

European Mars rover named after DNA discoverer Rosalind Franklin

By New Scientist and Press Association

7 February 2019

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Meet the new Rosalind Franklin

ESA/Airbus

The ExoMars rover, set to launch next year to find evidence of life on Mars, has been named after British scientist Rosalind Franklin.

The name was revealed by astronaut Tim Peake as part of a public competition launched in July last year.

More than 36,000 people submitted ideas in the competition, which were narrowed down by a panel of experts.

“It’s an important name because Rosalind Franklin was one of the great British scientists who unlocked the secrets of human life in terms of understanding DNA and the double helix, and ExoMars is so exciting because we’re searching for life and the possibility that…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop