Comet-Interceptor, ESA, Space Exploration, Astrophysics, Physics, Comets, dynamically new comet, DNC, camera, mass spectrometer, spacecraft, mission,

Comet Interceptor

The ESA Comet Interceptor mission is scheduled to launch in 2029. The University of Bern leads the development of two payloads on board: Comet Camera (CoCa) and the Mass Analyzer for Neutrals in a Coma (MANIaC).

The page provides an overview about the payloads and the mission and gives insight in the development.

Scientific goals and outlook are presented for this exciting mission.

News & Events

Anzeiger Bern

Uni Bern: Cometary Research with Bernese Instruments

The University of Bern is contributing two instruments to the Comet Interceptor mission of the European Space Agency (ESA), which is scheduled to launch in 2029. Martin Rubin explains the importance of this mission for understanding our origins.

(Article in German)

Inspirierend Anders Forscht

Comet Interceptor, the Rosetta Mission and the Secrets of Comets (German Podcast)

Find out if comets brought life and water to Earth, what the Comet Interceptor Mission is, how comets are helping us search for other life, what dimethyl sulfide is and why Nora started a huge debate about whether there is alcohol on comets and much more!

Luca Beutel & Nora Hänni

ESA

Comet Interceptor approved for construction

ESA’s Comet Interceptor mission to visit a pristine comet or other interstellar object just starting its journey into the inner Solar System has been ‘adopted’ this week; the study phase is complete and, following selection of the spacecraft prime contractor, work will soon begin to build the mission.