Ramses Spacecraft Has Been Powered On
The European and Japanese space agencies have activated the spacecraft core module for the first time.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Space
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The European Space Agency and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency have successfully powered on the Ramses spacecraft for the first time. The team performed initial tests on the core module, including its on-board computer and power distribution units, to ensure integrated performance.
Why it matters
Verifying that critical subsystems can communicate and function together is a vital step in preparing the spacecraft for its upcoming mission to study an asteroid. These tests ensure the hardware will reliably operate before the craft is finalized for space travel.
Engineers integrated and powered components including the mass memory unit and remote terminal units to verify system communication. The craft will later undergo thermal vacuum testing for a duration of two to three weeks.
The players
European Space Agency
This intergovernmental organization is dedicated to the exploration of space.
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
This national space agency is responsible for Japan's aerospace research and development.
The details
Assembly of the core module is currently underway in Milan, while the propulsion module is being constructed in Lampoldshausen, Germany. Both modules are scheduled to be mated at the ESTEC Test Centre in Noordwijk, The Netherlands, next spring.
Timeline
The Ramses spacecraft was powered on for the first time in September 2026.
The propulsion and core modules will be mated in spring 2027.
The spacecraft mission is scheduled for launch in spring 2028.
Ramses will rendezvous with the Apophis asteroid on April 13, 2029.
Deeper Dive
This mission is designed to provide direct observation of the 2029 Apophis asteroid approach. The development follows a pattern set by the mission requirements to observe that specific near-Earth object event.
The Ramses mission will provide unprecedented data on the Apophis asteroid, potentially helping scientists better understand how to defend Earth from future near-Earth object threats. This mission represents a significant leap in planetary defense and asteroid research capabilities.
The takeaway
The successful integration test brings the Ramses mission one step closer to its 2028 launch date. This milestone ensures the core systems can communicate effectively before the spacecraft is finalized for its asteroid rendezvous.
Further reading
Learn more about upcoming international missions in the Space section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by European Space Agency (ESA).
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