The first model of the Maangalyaan was unveiled at the Indian Science Congress in Kolkata on Jan. 6.
In December 2011, India’s Space Commission approved the project, which is estimated to cost around 4.5 billion rupees ($80.7 million). The government has allocated 1.25 billion rupees for the initial phase of the mission for India’s current fiscal year, which ends March 31.
Mars crater photo: NASA