ESA - Robotic Exploration of Mars - ExoMars 2016 Trace Gas Orbiter core module during integration at Thales Alenia Space, Cannes

Pictured here is the ExoMars 2016 Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) core module during integration of its electrical subsystems at Thales Alenia Space, Cannes, France in November 2014. The module is approximately 3.5 metres tall and measures two by two metres in cross section. The lower part of the core module (partially covered with plastic sheet) is the service module, which houses the majority of the non-instrument subsystems. The central cylinder is the core of the mechanical structure; one of its functions is to transmit the forces and stresses experienced during launch evenly throughout the rest of the spacecraft.