Frequently asked questions
Thank you for your interest in ESA. We welcome all questions and comments. However, due to the large volume of emails received, we cannot respond to every question or provide research assistance.
Before emailing us, please browse the Frequently Asked Questions below to see if your query has already been answered.
Careers and training at ESA
How do I apply for a post at ESA?
How often are new jobs posted on your website?
Can I send an open application?
How long do vacancies remain posted on the site?
Will you confirm receipt of my application?
What happens to my online application?
Can I apply for more than one job at a time?
How many employees work at ESA worldwide?
What are the working languages of the Agency?
I’m not a national of one of the Member States. Can I still apply?
Where can I find vacancies for a specific ESA Establishment?
What is the difference between a permanent post and an advance recruitment post?
What kind of working conditions and benefits can I expect?
What is your policy on gender equality?
I’ve recently graduated from university. Can I apply for a post at ESA?
I am a university student. Can I carry out a placement at ESA as part of my degree course?
I have just obtained my PhD, can I carry out my research topic at ESA?
Which educational studies are most suitable for work at ESA?
Space Science
Why does ESA do space science?
What is the ESA Science Programme for?
Where does ESA space science happen?
Where can I find technical information/images about ESA's scientific satellites?
Why do the Earth and other planets orbit around the Sun?
Does the Sun itself spin? If so, how fast?
How would we know if a distant planet had an Earth-like atmosphere?
Why can't we get pictures of planets outside the Solar System?
What are the risks of nuclear power sources for space probes?
There's a vacuum in space, so how do we know if the Sun makes a noise?
How big are the largest sunspot groups?
Do sunspots affect the climate here on Earth?
Do you have to wear safety goggles to observe the Sun?
Do rocket launches harm the ozone layer?
Is there really a face on Mars?
Do you think it will be feasible to send men to Mars in the short-term?
Navigation
What are the market prospects and business opportunities related to Galileo?
Where can I find a technical overview of the Galileo navigation system?
Who will benefit from Galileo?
Will the Galileo navigation system be compatible with the American GPS?
Doing business with ESA
How to participate in ESA procurements?
How do I get information concerning the ESA procurement and contracts?
How do I get information about standards to be used in space projects (materials, software, etc.)?
Human spaceflight
How can I become an astronaut?
How can I get information/photos of the ESA Astronauts?
Can I see the ISS from my hometown?
Where can I find information on the Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV)?
Launchers
What is the latest news on the Ariane-5 flight?
Why is ESA's launcher called Ariane?
Where can I find out about upcoming launches?
What's the difference between a geostationary orbit and a low Earth orbit?
Is it possible to visit ESA's spaceport in Kourou and see a launch?
Images
I want to use ESA photos/material. How should I proceed with the copyright issue?
I need some information about ESA images. Who can I contact?
Where can I find technical information/images regarding Earth Observation satellites?