The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a contract with Thales Alenia Space in Italy to lead a European consortium in developing the Argonaut Lunar Descent Element, marking ESA’s first lunar lander project.
Argonaut is set to provide Europe with independent and flexible access to the Moon, supporting global lunar exploration initiatives. Beginning in the early 2030s, the spacecraft will undertake regular missions to the Moon, transporting infrastructure, scientific equipment, rovers and technological demonstrators. It will also deliver essential supplies for astronauts, including food, water and oxygen. Designed for longevity, Argonaut will endure extreme lunar conditions for up to five years, ensuring a key role in sustainable lunar exploration.
As a fundamental part of ESA’s lunar strategy, Argonaut will integrate seamlessly with ESA’s Lunar Link on the Gateway and Moonlight communication and navigation systems. It serves as one of Europe’s contributions to international lunar initiatives, including NASA’s Artemis programme and commercial lunar lander services, advancing efforts to establish a lasting human presence on the Moon.
Daniel Neuenschwander, ESA Director for Human and Robotic Exploration, said: “The Argonaut contract signature is a pivotal moment for Europe’s lunar exploration ambitions. This first-of-its-kind European lunar lander demonstrates ESA’s dedication to advancing our industrial capabilities in deep space exploration. Argonaut will enable Europe to contribute meaningfully to international partnerships, while paving the way for a sustainable human presence on the Moon. Europe is on its journey to the Moon and has broken the ground towards European autonomy in Exploration.”
The core development team includes Thales Alenia Space in Italy as the prime contractor, with additional contributions from Thales Alenia Space branches in the United Kingdom and France, as well as OHB.
The Argonaut Lunar Descent Element is scheduled for delivery in 2030, with its first operational mission, ArgoNET, expected to launch in 2031. The industrial consortium responsible for utilising the first Lunar Descent Element for ArgoNET will be chosen by the end of 2026, following the successful completion of the definition phase.
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