The PLATO was selected by the Science Programme Committee (SPC) at its 143rd meeting (ESA/SPC(2014)6) and adopted by the SPC during its 154th meeting in June 2017 (ESA/SPC(2017)10). 

ESA has the overall responsibility for the PLATO mission design and implementation including the procurement of the launch service.

The scientific payload of PLATO will be developed and provided by a European scientific consortium (the PLATO Mission Consortium). The scientific payload consists of 26 FM Cameras, with Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs) as detection elements that are procured by the Agency, in their focal planes. The scientific payload is complemented by the associated digital and analogue electronics.

The industrial Prime contractor is responsible for the Design, Development (including procurement, manufacturing, assembly, integration, test and verification) and Support to Launch and Post Launch Operations (Phase B2/C/D/E1) of the PLATO Spacecraft accommodating the delivered payload.