Automated Transfer Vehicle - 'know-how' for future missions

The ATV space transporter is a joint project between industry and research in Europe. It is the most complex space vehicle ever built in Europe.

ATV technology has enormous potential for future space applications. For their 25 - 26 November 2008 meeting, a further study has been prepared for the ESA Council, looking at a reusable ATV that can survive reentry into Earth's atmosphere.

The ATV transports supplies for the astronauts, research tools, water, oxygen and fuel.

Image: NASA.