Core Viewpoint - The European Space Agency (ESA) has successfully tested the largest Mars parachute ever, laying a solid foundation for the ExoMars project, which aims to land on Mars and search for signs of life [1][2]. Group 1: Testing and Technology - The Mars atmosphere is thin, with only about 1% of Earth's density, making it necessary to conduct tests at high altitudes on Earth to simulate landing conditions [2]. - During the test, the simulated probe's speed was reduced from 21,000 km/h to approximately 1,600 km/h due to atmospheric drag [2]. - The parachute system consists of two stages, with the first parachute having a diameter of about 15 meters and the second parachute measuring 35 meters, making it the largest ever designed for Mars landings [2]. Group 2: Project Background and Challenges - The parachute system has faced multiple testing failures and was originally part of a joint Mars exploration project with Russia, which was halted due to the Ukraine conflict [3]. - The ExoMars project is a collaboration between ESA and NASA, aimed at completing a Mars sample return mission, but its future remains uncertain due to potential funding cuts from the U.S. government [3].