ESA and JAXA Collaborate on Planetary Defence Against Asteroid Apophis

The European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on May 7, 2026, to enhance collaboration in planetary defence, specifically focusing on the Ramses mission targeting the near-Earth asteroid Apophis. This partnership aims to strengthen international efforts to detect and mitigate potential asteroid threats. The agreement was signed in Berlin, Germany, with key representatives from both agencies and the Italian Space Agency present. The Ramses mission is set to launch in 2028 and will involve rendezvousing with asteroid (99942) Apophis. This initiative builds on previous commitments made in November 2024 for expanded cooperation in planetary defence. ESA's Space Safety programme plays a crucial role in monitoring asteroid threats and developing deflection technologies, with JAXA as a significant partner in these efforts.

Key Points: • ESA and JAXA signed a cooperation agreement on May 7, 2026, for planetary defence. • The Ramses mission will target the near-Earth asteroid Apophis, launching in 2028. • This collaboration builds on a joint commitment made in November 2024 to enhance planetary defence efforts.