Exploded view of the BepiColombo cruise configuration

This exploded view shows BepiColombo in its cruise configuration. Visible from the bottom are: the BepiColombo transfer module, the Mercury Planetary Orbit (MPO), the sun shield and the Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter (MMO).

The transfer module is provided with solar-electric propulsion and chemical propulsion units. The former will be used during the cruise to destination; the latter will be used after launch to boost up the orbit to the Moon's altitude for the planned lunar gravity-assist.

Note: This artist's impression reflects the spacecraft concept of the time when it was published. The design has changed in the meantime and thus this image is no longer up-to-date. For the latest images of BepiColombo, please check the most recently added images in our gallery.