This paper describes new humidity measurements performed with the humidity instruments of the MSL, Mars 2020 and ExoMars missions. Special facilities are needed to create Martian conditions, and a measurement campaign was performed at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) to obtain datasets for REMS-H, MEDA HS and METEO-H instruments. The results from the campaign improved the humidity data we receive from MEDA HS/Perseverance and can further improve the existing Martian relative humidity data.

The 1-D column model has been used extensively in studying the Martian atmosphere. In this study, we investigated the sensitivity of the column model to its initialization. The results of the model were compared with Curiosity rover measurements. The initial value of airborne dust and surface temperature had the greatest influence on the temperature prediction, while the initial atmospheric moisture content and the shape of the initial moisture profile modified the humidity prediction the most.

Combining short-time forecast models, standardized interfaces to a wide range of environment detectors and a flexible user access interface, CITYZER provides decision-making authorities and private citizens with reliable information about the near-future development of critical environmental parameters like air quality and rain. The system can be easily adapted to different areas or different parameters. Alarms for critical situations can be set and used to support authority decisions.

A software application for streamlining investigations of the Martian atmosphere is described. The main components are a 1-D model of the Martian atmosphere, observations of the Martian atmosphere and a software wrapper. We verify our model using the application. The model and observations agree except over the winter solstice where mechanical heating of the atmosphere, from downward flowing air, is likely warming the atmosphere. We update our model to include this effect.

Investigations of Mars – its atmosphere, surface and interior – require simultaneous, distributed in situ measurements. We have developed an innovative prototype of the Mars Network Lander (MNL), a small lander/penetrator with a 20 % payload mass fraction. MNL features an innovative Entry, Descent and Landing System to increase reliability and reduce the system mass. It is ideally suited for piggy-backing on spacecraft, for network missions and pathfinders for high-value landed missions.