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 22 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 topicThank you for liking
You have already liked this page, you can only like it once!
Artist's impression of the Automated Transfer Vehicle approaching the International Space Station. In combination with ESA's new Ariane 5, the 20.5 tonne, 8.5 m-long Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) allows Europe to transport cargo to the International Space Station. This vehicle can carry 9 tonnes of scientific equipment, supplies, water, oxygen and propellant. Up to 4 tonnes of propellant are included for ATV's own engines to reboost the Station at regular intervals as atmospheric drag reduces the orbit. An ATV is launched on average every year contributing to the Station's operating costs. It can remain docked for up to six months, during which time it will is loaded with Station waste before undocking and entering Earth's atmosphere to burn up.