After 6 months, the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV), loaded with 6.5 tonnes of waste, separates from ISS and fully burns up during a guided and controlled reentry high over the Pacific.

In combination with ESA's new Ariane 5, 8.5 m-long ATV will enable Europe to transport cargo to the International Space Station. The 45 m³ pressurized module of the ATV delivers up to 7.2 tonnes of equipment, fuel, food, water and air for the crew.