The Fluorescence Explorer (FLEX) mission will map vegetation fluorescence to quantify photosynthetic activity.

The conversion of atmospheric carbon dioxide and sunlight into energy-rich carbohydrates through photosynthesis is one of the most fundamental processes on Earth - and one on which we all depend.

Information from FLEX will improve our understanding of the way carbon moves between plants and the atmosphere and how photosynthesis affects the carbon and water cycles.

Cette mission d’exploration de la fluorescence ( FLEX, Fluorescence Explorer) établira une cartographie de la fluorescence de la végétation afin de quantifier la photosynthèse.

La transformation du dioxyde de carbone de l’atmosphère et de la lumière du soleil, lors de la photosynthèse, en hydrates de carbone riches en énergie est un processus essentiel à la vie sur Terre – et dont nous dépendons tous.

All four sites under study – Aram Dorsum, Hypanis Vallis, Mawrth Vallis and Oxia Planum – show evidence of having been influenced by water in the past, and are likely representative of global processes operating in the Red Planet’s early history.ExoMars 2018, comprising a rover and surface platform, is the second of two missions making up the ExoMars programme, a joint endeavour between ESA and Russia’s Roscosmos. Launch is planned for May 2018, with touchdown on the Red Planet in January 2019.