ESA · Space

Ramses Mission Achieves Key Power-On Milestone

The joint European Space Agency (ESA) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Ramses mission, designed to intercept the asteroid Apophis, has successfully completed its first integrated power-on test. This critical step signifies the spacecraft's systems are beginning to function together.

The spacecraft's Core Module, containing its main electronics, had its On-Board Computer and integrated subsystems powered up for the first time by prime contractor OHB Italia. This allows for initial functional testing and command verification.

Key integrated units include the Mass Memory Unit, Power Conditioning and Distribution Unit, and Remote Terminal Units, all linked by intricate cabling. This test confirms these components work in unison within the spacecraft body.

The Ramses mission has a tight schedule, requiring launch by spring 2028 to meet the asteroid Apophis's close Earth pass in April 2029. The spacecraft is being assembled in two parts concurrently to save time.

The Propulsion Module is being outfitted in Germany, while the Core Module is being built in Italy. These two modules will be joined next spring at ESA's ESTEC Test Centre for pre-flight testing.

Pre-flight testing will simulate launch and space conditions, including a challenging two-to-three-week thermal vacuum test and a comprehensive mission simulation from lift-off to mission end.

The Ramses mission, along with two accompanying CubeSats, is slated for launch on a Japanese H-3 rocket in spring 2028.

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