Beagle 2 probe landing on Mars, computer artwork. Its heat shield is glowing as it falls through the Martian atmosphere. This British probe was carried to Mars by the European Space Agency's Mars Express spacecraft, which was launched in June 2003. Beagle 2 will look for signs of ancient life on Mars, by studying soil samples. It will look for traces of water and residues from organic material. It also carries three cameras, which will provide panoramic views and microscopic studies of rocks. Beagle 2 will be deployed on 19th December 2003, and will land on Mars on 25th December.