The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Find out more about space activities in our 23 Member States, and understand how ESA works together with their national agencies, institutions and organisations.
Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
Go to topicEuropean Portable Glovebox - will launch on board Space Shuttle mission STS-121. Will be used for the handling of various biology experiments with the European Modular Cultivation System and Kubik. Provides an adequate enclosure to perform manual operations during safety critical steps of any experiment. Has an airtight volume of 21 litres, with two gloves mounted on standard glove rings for handling the experiment inside.