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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The Cassini Orbiter Flight Model underwent testing in JPL's space simulator where it was subjected to the extreme temperatures and vacuum environment of space. Technicians preparing the spacecraft are standing below the Huygens Probe front shield covered with Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI). This will provide thermal protection during the 6 year cruise to Saturn, while the High Gain Antenna, visible on top of the Cassini, provides shadowing for all elements from the solar radiation. The Huygens Probe seen here is the Structural, Thermal & Pyro Model (STPM). [Image Date: 01-05-97] [97.07.002-005]