Preparing ATV Albert Einstein’s cargo and avionics module to join the propulsion module at Europe’s Spaceport, Kourou, French Guiana. The pressurised cargo section contains the docking port and can be used by astronauts on the International Space Station as temporary work space. The avionics module underneath holds critical items such as the computers, gyroscopes, navigation and control systems, as well as power
distribution and communications equipment.
Automated Transfer Vehicles (ATV) are multi-function unmanned ferries sent into orbit by the European Ariane 5 launcher. Each spacecraft can deliver up to 7 tonnes of cargo to the International Space Station including supplies and equipment, water, air, nitrogen, oxygen and fuel.