Source:Canaveral Port Authority
Port Canaveral, FL – The MV Canopée, the world’s first hybrid wind-powered cargo vessel, recently made its first-ever stop in the United States, docking at Port Canaveral’s North Cargo Berth 1. This groundbreaking vessel, a roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ship, delivered the European Service Module (ESM-3) for NASA’s Artemis III mission, marking a significant milestone for both the maritime industry and space exploration.
Designed by the French aerospace company ArianeGroup, the MV Canopée uses a combination of wind and fuel for propulsion, making it the first large-scale commercial vessel of its kind. The ship is equipped with four wing sails, which are capable of rotating 360 degrees to harness the wind from any direction, allowing the vessel to save up to 30% on fuel consumption per voyage. This innovation represents a remarkable step forward in sustainable shipping, particularly for cargo like the ESM-3 module destined for a lunar mission. The module, which forms part of the European contribution to the NASA Artemis III mission, was carefully offloaded and transferred to the Kennedy Space Center, a process overseen by Ambassador Services International (ASI), the operation’s stevedore.
The vessel’s arrival drew significant attention from local spectators and the maritime community. Onlookers gathered at Jetty Park to catch a glimpse of this unique hybrid vessel as it maneuvered into the port. The MV Canopée, operated by the French shipping company Alizés, measures 400 feet in length and 72 feet in width. Its wing sails feature two flaps—one forward and one aft—that optimize wind capture. This vessel is part of a broader effort to reduce carbon emissions in maritime transport, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
“Port Canaveral was thrilled to welcome the MV Canopée on its first visit to the U.S. and proud to support NASA and their European Space Agency partners as they prepare for a historic return to the Moon,” said Capt. John Murray, CEO of Port Canaveral. “The design and purpose of this sail-assisted commercial vessel is unique for the maritime transport sector in both innovation and the type of cargo it carries for space exploration.”
Built to transport rocket components from Europe to French Guiana for the European Space Agency’s Ariane 6 program, the MV Canopée is a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and environmental stewardship. It represents a shift towards a more sustainable future for maritime freight, combining traditional sailing with modern propulsion systems.
The MV Canopée’s stop at Port Canaveral is not just a significant logistical milestone but also a symbol of international collaboration in space exploration. As the Artemis III mission gears up to return humans to the Moon, the vessel’s visit highlights the pivotal role of global partnerships and innovative technology in achieving this monumental goal.
