ESA invests €862M in a lunar lander, first mission in 2031.

The European Space Agency (ESA) has invested 862 million euros in the development of the robotic lunar lander Argonaut, with its first mission planned for around 2031. This move aims to strengthen European autonomy in space exploration and cooperation with NASA’s Artemis program. The contract with the company “Thales Alenia Space” marks a key milestone for ESA, while the German company OHB will provide navigation and communication systems. Argonaut will transport cargo to the Moon every two years, supporting the development of European initiatives.