The die is cast: Rosetta’s lander Philae will target Site J, an intriguing region on the ‘head’ of Comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko.

The chosen site offers unique scientific potential, with hints of activity nearby, and minimum risk to the lander compared to the other candidate sites. The decision to select Site J as the primary site was unanimous. The backup, Site C, is located on the ‘body’ of the comet.

Philae is planned to reach the surface on 11 November. The landing date should be confirmed on 26 September after further trajectory analysis and the final Go/No Go for a landing at the primary site will follow a comprehensive readiness review on 14 October.

Read the full story on how the landing site was chosen: ‘J’ marks the spot for Rosetta’s lander.

The landing site was announced this morning at ESA Headquarters.

Watch a full replay of the Rosetta landing site announcement here.