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Argonaut (lunar lander)

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Argonaut
ManufacturerEuropean Space Agency
DesignerEuropean Space Agency
Country of originEuropean Union
OperatorEuropean Space Agency
ApplicationsLunar payload delivery and support
Specifications
Spacecraft typeLunar lander
Payload capacity2100 kg
Dimensions
Length6 m
Diameter4.5 m
Production
StatusTesting
On order0
Built0
Launched0
Operational0
Maiden launch2031 (planned)[1]
Related spacecraft
Flown withAriane 64

Argonaut or European Large Logistics Lander (EL3) is a class of lunar landers designed by the European Space Agency in partnership with Airbus to deliver payloads to the surface of the Moon.[2] The lander is being designed with a versatile set of uses in mind, including use as a power station, support for a rover, cargo delivery, and infrastructure delivery. It is envisioned to launch on an Ariane 64 launch vehicle.[3][4][5] As of July 2024, Argonaut Mission 1 is expected to be launched in 2031.[1]

Funding

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In 2022, ESA formally sought funding for the lander in their ministerial meeting.[6] In 2024, Redwire Space was awarded a contract by ESA to develop a robotic arm for use on the lander.[7]

Overview

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The Argonaut lander will consist of the descent element, cargo platform and payload. Capable of delivering upto 2100 kg, the craft will reportedly be able to land with an accuracy of 50–100 meters.[8] Engine testing began in 2024.[9] Also in 2024, the ESA committed to an Argonaut mission in 2031.[10]

See also

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Lunar lander programs by country

References

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  1. ^ a b Parsonson, Andrew (17 July 2024). "ESA Targets 2031 for First Argonaut Lunar Lander Mission". European Spaceflight. Retrieved 17 July 2024.
  2. ^ "The Moon in our sights | Airbus". www.airbus.com. 29 November 2022. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  3. ^ "What is Argonaut?". www.esa.int. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  4. ^ "Argonaut". www.esa.int. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  5. ^ Airbus Defence and Space (14 October 2020). EL3 European Large Logistic Lander. Retrieved 25 May 2024 – via YouTube.
  6. ^ Foust, Jeff (21 October 2022). "ESA finalizes package for ministerial". SpaceNews. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  7. ^ "Redwire Awarded Contract by European Space Agency to Develop Robotic Arm Prototype for Argonaut Lunar Lander to Support International Lunar Exploration". Redwire Space. 22 May 2024. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  8. ^ "EL3_ARGONAUT\\EL3_by_EAC_11mei21.stp". European Space Agency. Format: ISO 10303-21
  9. ^ Parsonson, Andrew (25 June 2024). "ESA Signs Off on Argonaut Lunar Lander Engine Test". European Spaceflight. Retrieved 26 June 2024.
  10. ^ Parsonson, Andrew (17 July 2024). "ESA Targets 2031 for First Argonaut Lunar Lander Mission". European Spaceflight. Retrieved 21 July 2024.
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