Thales Alenia Space to Build Lunar Landing Module
The module will travel to the Moon, landing on its surface to ensure Europe’s autonomous access to lunar exploration
/https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/01/modulo_lunar.jpg)
Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has signed an €862 million contract with the European Space Agency (ESA) for the design, development, and delivery of the Lunar Descent Element (LDE) for ESA’s Argonaut mission. The contract also includes responsibility for mission design and integration.
According to the company’s official statement, the LDE module is scheduled for launch in the 2030s, with Argonaut set to deliver cargo, infrastructure, and scientific instruments to the lunar surface.
First Mission and Objectives
The first Argonaut mission will focus on delivering navigation and telecommunications payloads, along with power generation and storage systems. These components will support European companies in exploring the Moon’s southern region.
Hervé Derrey, CEO of Thales Alenia Space, emphasized the mission’s role in advancing long-term human exploration:
"This new element of the Artemis program will enable extended crewed lunar exploration missions."
He also highlighted that the Moon will serve as a stepping stone for future deep-space missions, with Mars as the next major destination.
Europe’s Role in Lunar Exploration
The Argonaut mission is part of Europe’s contribution to global lunar exploration efforts, particularly through the delayed Artemis program.
In October 2024, Leonardo called for a new space strategy, partnering with Thales and competing with Airbus to strengthen Europe’s presence in the satellite and lunar exploration industry.
Para comentar, debés estar registradoPor favor, iniciá sesión