The European Space Agency (ESA) has taken a historic step in lunar exploration by awarding a $900 million contract to Thales Alenia Space in Italy to build Europe’s first lunar module, called Argonaut.
The Argonaut represents Europe’s commitment to sustainable space exploration and its participation in international missions. Designed to land and operate on the Moon for up to five years, this module will be able to carry vital cargo, scientific instruments and essential supplies such as water, food and air for astronauts.
European lunar module: Key to the Artemis mission
The contract positions Thales Alenia Space as the leader of a European consortium that includes subsidiaries in the UK and France, as well as German aerospace company OHB. The Argonaut lunar lander is expected to be ready in 2030, and its first operational mission, ArgoNET, is scheduled for 2031.
This development also strengthens ESA’s collaboration with NASA and the Artemis programme , facilitating exploration and the establishment of permanent bases on the Moon. Argonaut will be integrated with the Lunar Link and Moonlight communication systems, ensuring precise connectivity and navigation in the lunar environment.
ESA’s Moonlight Initiative. Source: ESA
A leap towards European spatial autonomy
According to Daniel Neuenschwander, ESA’s Director of Human and Robotic Exploration, this contract represents a crucial moment for European deep space exploration. “The Argonaut project will enable Europe to contribute significantly to lunar exploration, strengthening its position in interplanetary exploration ,” he said.
With this breakthrough, ESA and its European partners are consolidating their presence in space, paving the way for future manned missions and a key role in global lunar and space exploration .
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Source and photos: ESA
