A question about Mars sample return mission
I understand that one such mission is in-the-works. To my embarasment, I really haven't done much reading about it yet, so if this question is absurd, please forgive me.
Anyway...would it be valuable, or even possible, to use the mission to run a field test of our ability to produce propellant using Martian resources? That is, send the return craft out with empty tanks. It'd be a great way to prove the process, wouldn't it?
Or would it introduce too many complications, or perhaps be too expensive for the mission in question?