Redwire Awarded Contract by European Space Agency to Develop Robotic Arm Prototype for Argonaut Lunar Lander to Support International Lunar Exploration

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (May 22, 2024) – Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW), a leader in space infrastructure for the next generation space economy, announced today that it has been awarded a contract by the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a robotic arm prototype for the agency’s Argonaut Lunar Lander, which will establish the capability for Europe to land 1,500-1,800 kg of cargo, infrastructure, and scientific instruments on the lunar surface.

The Manipulator for Argonaut Payload Needs and Unloading Support (MANUS) system will be a crucial capability for Argonaut’s logistics operations on the lunar surface. The MANUS system will enable Argonaut’s surface logistics operations such as offloading, precise positioning and retrieval of objects, and positioning of the lander. Redwire will develop, breadboard, test and verify the functions of the MANUS with the opportunity to compete for a follow-on contract.

“Redwire is proud to be leveraging its significant heritage in space robotics technology for ESA’s Argonaut mission, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of performance, reliability, and safety,” said Jaroslaw Jaworski Managing Director of Redwire Space’s Luxembourg Facility. “As a leader in robotic arm development and with a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions for ambitious space exploration missions, Redwire’s robotic capabilities are poised to play a crucial role in future European space missions, contributing to lunar exploration and paving the way for advancements in space exploration technology.”

MANUS will be developed at Redwire’s Luxembourg facility, which currently develops Redwire’s STAARK robotic arm, a modular and easily customized robotic system designed for various on-orbit robotics applications.