Illustration of the ESAs (European Space Agency) Huygens probe entering the atmosphere of Titan, Saturns largest moon. The probe, measuring 1.3 metres in width and protected by a heat shield, was brought to Titan by NASAs (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) Cassini spacecraft (launched in 1997, not shown). On 14 January 2005, the probe penetrated Titans atmosphere. A parachute was used to bring the probe safely to the surface after atmospheric entry. The probe discovered that Titans atmosphere is primarily made up of nitrogen, with the existence of methane and ethane clouds. The surface of Titan is a blend of water and hydrocarbon ice.