Argonaut[2] or European Large Logistics Lander (EL3) is a class of lunar landers designed by the European Space Agency (ESA) in partnership with Thales Alenia Space to deliver payloads to the surface of the Moon.[3] The lander is being designed with a versatile set of uses in mind, including use as a power station, support for a rover, cargo delivery, and infrastructure delivery. It is envisioned to launch on an Ariane 64 launch vehicle.[4][5][6] The Argonaut lander will consist of the descent element, cargo platform and payload. Capable of delivering up to 2,100kg (4,600lb), the craft will reportedly be able to land with an accuracy of 50–100 meters.[7]
ArgoNET will be the first operational flight of the programme, planned for launch in 2031. It will deliver navigation, energy, and telecommunications infrastructure and will serve as a selenodetic reference station for the Moonlight satellite constellation in order to improve navigation capabilities around the lunar south pole.[8]
Timeline
In 2022, ESA formally sought funding for the lander in their ministerial meeting.[9]
In 2024, Redwire Space was awarded a contract by ESA to develop a robotic arm for use on the lander.[10]
In 2024, the ESA committed to an Argonaut mission in 2031.[12]
On 30 January 2025, ESA has awarded a contract to Thales Alenia Space to build the descent element of the lander.[13][14]
In March 2025, ESA and JAXA have signed a statement of intent detailing possible future cooperation between the Argonaut lunar lander and the Japanese pressurised rover under development for the Artemis program, as well as possible Japanese scientific investigations on Argonaut.[15]
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