June 25, 2020 – The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed an annual renewal contract with Airbus on continuing the operation and use of European components on the International Space Station (ISS). The contract is worth around €16 million. For astronauts conducting research on the ISS, it is essential that all systems function reliably. An international team led by ESA is responsible for smooth operation of the life-support systems, power supply, flight control systems, laboratory equipment and experimental payloads in the European Columbus module. The agreement between ESA and Airbus is valid until the end of 2020 and includes the following work packages: Support during operations, e.g. preparing and conducting experiments, as well as providing engineering support; Preparing ISS missions, including the integration of ISS payloads; Maintaining, repairing and developing systems; Maintaining and developing software.