Terma to support ESA’s Ramses mission to advance planetary defence

Terma will supply the Remote Terminal Unit (RTU), a critical component for the spacecraft’s operations, under a newly signed contract.

The Ramses mission is part of ESA’s Space Safety programme and will focus on studying the asteroid Apophis during its close approach to Earth in 2029.

The spacecraft, set to launch in April 2028, will observe Apophis before, during, and after its encounter with Earth, analysing changes in its shape, surface, orbit, and rotation caused by Earth’s gravitational forces.

Terma’s RTU, which successfully supported ESA’s HERA mission, will play a pivotal role in managing key spacecraft systems, including propulsion and communication.

The reliability of the RTU under demanding space conditions has been well-documented, making it an essential asset for the Ramses mission.

“Terma is proud to contribute to the Ramses mission by providing our proven Remote Terminal Unit technology. This partnership underscores our dedication to delivering high-quality solutions that enhance space safety and drive forward scientific progress,” said Günther Lackner, Senior Vice President at Terma Space.

The Ramses mission will provide valuable insights into asteroid dynamics, helping scientists understand how near-Earth objects respond to external forces.

Such knowledge is vital for developing strategies to deflect potentially hazardous asteroids, strengthening planetary defence efforts.

By participating in the Ramses mission, Terma reinforces its commitment to advancing space safety and contributing to scientific exploration.