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
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Lights, camera, action! The lightning captured in this time-lapse taken by ESA astronaut Alexander Gerst from aboard the International Space Station is reminiscent of camera flashes in the night.
Taking a tour over cities and oceans as the Space Station orbits planet Earth, the clip ends with a view of the aurora. It comprises 1,675 images taken at a rate of two per second.
Alexander often sets cameras to automatically take pictures at regular intervals while he carries out scientific experiments and work on board the Space Station. Horizons is his second mission and he will fulfil the role of Station commander in early October.
Follow the Horizons mission at http://blogs.esa.int/alexander-gerst/
Follow Alexander on Twitter at @Astro_Alex and on Instagram at @astro_alex_esa.