ATV-4 Programme and Mission

ESA will shortly launch Albert Einstein, the fourth Automated Transfer Vehicle, from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. The penultimate ATV, Albert Einstein will carry vital supplies to the International Space Station – and at over 20 tonnes is the heaviest spacecraft ever lifted by Ariane 5. After an automated docking procedure, it will remain attached to the ISS until October; filled with waste, it will then perform a destructive re-entry over the Pacific Ocean.