Beagle 2's primary relay path will be through Mars Express, but I understand that they would like a redundant link as well. Note that Beagle 2 does not posses direct-to-Earth (DTE) telecom capability; it must relay via orbital assets. Interestingly, from what I've seen of the Beagle 2 mission plan, in the first ten days after landing Beagle 2 can
only relay data through 2001 Mars Odyssey. Beagle 2 is unable to utilize the Mars Express relay path during this period due to MEx's orbital maneuvering.

As an aside, one might note that there was some earlier concern over the fact that the communications protocols for Odyssey were finalized some time before Beagle 2. Apparently, there was a compatibility problem, though from what I understand a software workaround was implemented. That said, one should bear in mind that Odyssey's primary relay duty and responsibility during that time frame is for the twin 2003 MERs. Nothing (not even support for Beagle 2) is to interfere. Finally, some MGS types I've spoken with have heard nothing about the MGS Mars Relay (which is compatible with the MER telecom system) supporting Beagle 2.

Alex R. Blackwell
University of Hawaii