Rendering of the Comet Interceptor spacecraft. Photo: OHB Italia

Redwire will provide the onboard computer for the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Comet Interceptor mission, which will be the first spacecraft to visit a long-period, dynamically new comet or interstellar object. OHB Italy is the prime contractor on the mission, and awarded Redwire’s Belgian subsidiary, Redwire Space NV, the contract. 

The onboard computer, or the “brain” of the spacecraft, monitors and controls other components, including transmitting data to operators on the ground. The onboard computer is part of Redwire’s third generation Advanced Data and Power Management System.

“We are proud to partner with OHB Italy and ESA to enable the first-of-its-kind Comet Interceptor mission with critical technology to deepen our understanding of the solar system,” said Erik Masure, president of Redwire Space Europe. “Redwire Space Europe’s breadth of advanced, flight-proven satellite technology is continuing to enable Europe’s most ambitious space missions.”

The Comet Interceptor’s target is not yet determined. It will target a comet from the outskirts of the Solar System, ideally one visiting the inner Solar System for the first time. According to ESA, it is planned for launch in 2029 as a co-passenger with ESA’s exoplanet-studying Ariel spacecraft.