EADS Astrium has signed a contract with the European Space Agency to develop and build the 2,000kg (4,400lb) satellite for the Global Astrometric Interferometer for Astrophysics (Gaia) mission. To be launched in 2011, Gaia will create a 3D map of the galaxy, mapping and recording more than 1 billion stars over a five-year period.
Source: Flight International