Even though NASA’s next-generation Mars rover mission could cost more than $2-billion, it remains on track for a launch next fall.
Weighing 2,000-lbs, the Mars Science Laboratory, about the size of a small sport utility vehicle, is much larger and heavier than the rovers currently exploring Mars, and can carry 165-lbs of scientific instruments compared with 11-lbs carried by the current rovers.

The previous budget of $1.6-billion has grown to $1.9-billion.  Congress so far, has been supportive and it is hoped it will continue to be so approving the $100-million additional financing needed for the mission.