The European Space Agency (ESA) has initiated a significant step in lunar exploration by awarding an €862 million (US$896 million) contract to Thales Alenia Space for the design and construction of the Argonaut lunar cargo delivery vehicle. This mission is set to launch in the 2030s, with the first operational mission, ArgoNET, expected in 2031.
Argonaut aims to autonomously deliver cargo, infrastructure, and scientific instruments to the Moon's surface, supporting international exploration efforts. The Lunar Descent Element (LDE) will facilitate the delivery of vital resources such as navigation and telecommunications payloads, as well as energy generation systems.
The project is a cornerstone of ESA's lunar exploration strategy, designed to operate in conjunction with the Lunar Link for communication and navigation systems. Argonaut will contribute to NASA's Artemis program and commercial lunar lander services, aiming to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon.
Daniel Neuenschwander, ESA's Director for Human and Robotic Exploration, emphasized the importance of this contract, stating it reflects ESA's commitment to advancing European capabilities in deep space exploration. The Argonaut mission will play a crucial role in enhancing European autonomy in lunar exploration.
The development team includes Thales Alenia Space from Italy, the UK, and France, along with OHB System from Germany. The LDE is scheduled for delivery in 2030, with the industrial consortium for ArgoNET to be selected by late 2026.