ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter

Date: 11 Feb 2010
Depicts: ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter and Entry, Descent and Landing Demonstrator Module
Copyright: ESA

The ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO), along with an Entry, Descent and Landing Demonstrator Module (EDM), form the first mission in the ESA-NASA ExoMars Programme. The Orbiter and EDM are scheduled to arrive at Mars in 2016. This image shows the Orbiter and the EDM in cruise configuration.

The ESA-led Orbiter will carry a suite of instruments to carry out a series of scientific investigations, including the search for evidence of methane and other trace gases in the Martian atmosphere.

The Entry, Descent and Landing Demonstrator Module (the capsule attached to the Orbiter) will test key technologies in preparation for ESA's contribution to a 2020 international mission.