ESA's Exploration programme: Terrae Novae

1. The Low Earth Orbit (LEO)

LEO forms the basis of human presence in space. The focus in this category is to continue operating the International Space Station (ISS) until 2030 or later. ESA is also getting ready for the transition to commercially operated space stations after the ISS has been decommissioned.

2. The Moon and "Beyond LEO"

The focus in this category lies upon NASA's Artemis programme:

• Orion & ESM: Europe is supplying the European Service Modules (ESM) for the Orion capsules that will once again carry humans to the Moon.
• Lunar Gateway: ESA is providing crucial modules for this new space station that is going to orbit the Moon:
• I-Hab: The international habitation module for astronauts (in collaboration with JAXA).
• Lunar View: A refuelling, storage and communication module that includes windows for a panoramic view.
• Lunar Link: Communication services for the Gateway.
• Argonaut: This is a versatile lander. From 2031 onwards, it will carry freight, experiments or infrastructure to the surface of the Moon on board Ariane 64.

3. Mars

• ExoMars Rosalind Franklin: Following the suspension of the cooperation with Russia, the launch of the rover has been postponed to 2028. ESA is now constructing a landing system of its own and is replacing the Russian components (with assistance from NASA).
• The Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) with the Belgian NOMAD device on board, is still active and is successfully orbiting Mars.