ESA’s Comet Interceptor will be the first ever mission to visit a comet coming directly from the outer reaches of the Sun's realm, carrying material untouched since the dawn of the Solar System.

After launch on an Ariane 6 rocket in 2029, the spacecraft will be 'parked' in space, awaiting the appearance of a pristine comet or interstellar object.

In this video, we see two smaller probes attached to the top of the main spacecraft. The main spacecraft and the pointy probe are being built by ESA, whilst the cubic probe with the boom extending upwards is being built by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

When a suitable comet is identified, Comet Interceptor will approach it. The two probes will separate from the main spacecraft to observe the comet from different directions and with different scientific instruments.

Comet Interceptor is an ESA-led mission in collaboration with JAXA. The prime contractor for construction is OHB.

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