Argonaut lunar landers to deliver cargo on Ariane 6 missions

by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Nov 21, 2025

The European Space Agency (ESA) has broadened its Argonaut lunar lander initiative with the formal addition of several European industrial partners. The signing event at ESA's European Astronaut Centre in Cologne marked new agreements between Thales Alenia Space Italy, serving as prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space France, OHB Germany, Thales Alenia Space UK, and Nammo UK.

Argonaut landers are designed to enable Europe's autonomous, reliable access to the Moon. Missions will begin in 2030 with launches on Ariane 6 rockets, and each lander will carry up to 1.5 tonnes of cargo. This cargo will include scientific instruments and rovers, as well as resources for astronauts such as food, water, and air. Earlier in 2025, ESA selected Thales Alenia Space Italy to lead the development of the first Argonaut unit, referred to as the Lunar Descent Element. The signing ceremony took place at the LUNA analogue facility, which features a full-scale Argonaut mock-up.

The project is supported by teams specializing in critical technical areas. Thales Alenia Space Italy oversees the overall consortium and is responsible for system integration, assembly, and structural tests. Thales Alenia Space France manages data-handling systems and on-board computing functions. OHB System AG Germany provides the lander's guidance, navigation, control systems, telecommunications, electrical power systems, and designs hardware including solar arrays and batteries. Thales Alenia Space UK handles propulsion development and procures major propellant-related components, while Nammo UK designs and supplies the lunar lander's main engine.

Argonaut is intended to play a pivotal role in upcoming robotic and crewed lunar missions, supporting goals such as NASA's Artemis program that aim to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon. The program gives ESA and its partners reliable lunar surface access, underlining Europe's capabilities and collaborative strength in the global space sector. With the industrial team established, Argonaut will transport essential scientific equipment and resources to the Moon, opening new opportunities for research and supporting future expeditions. By pooling specialized expertise from multiple European countries, ESA is laying groundwork for an enduring European role on the lunar surface.