The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Find out more about space activities in our 23 Member States, and understand how ESA works together with their national agencies, institutions and organisations.
Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
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ESA’s Comet Interceptor will be the first ever mission to visit a comet coming directly from the outer reaches of the Sun's realm, carrying material untouched since the dawn of the Solar System.
After launch on an Ariane 6 rocket in 2029, the spacecraft will be 'parked' in space, awaiting the appearance of a pristine comet or interstellar object.
In this video, we see two smaller probes attached to the top of the main spacecraft. The main spacecraft and the pointy probe are being built by ESA, whilst the cubic probe with the boom extending upwards is being built by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
When a suitable comet is identified, Comet Interceptor will approach it. The two probes will separate from the main spacecraft to observe the comet from different directions and with different scientific instruments.
Comet Interceptor is an ESA-led mission in collaboration with JAXA. The prime contractor for construction is OHB.