SESAME is an instrument complex carried by the Rosetta lander Philae that will land on comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko in 2014. The main goals of this instrument suite, which was built in international co-operation, are to measure mechanical and electrical properties of the cometary surface and the shallow subsurface as well as to study particles emitted from the cometary surface. Most of the sensors are mounted within the six soles of the landing gear feet in order to provide good contact with or proximity to the cometary surface. The measuring principles, instrument designs as well as technical improvements and results from cruise phase operations are described. We conclude with comments on the consequences of the last minute change of the target comet and how to improve and to preserve the knowledge during the long-duration Rosetta mission.