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 Polar Platform structural model on its Integration Stand (PIS) during transfer from the preparation area to the Hydra vibration test facility. The PIS can tilt, rotate and move (on an air cushion) the 8t/10m high PPF/Envisat-1 spacecraft. The doors of the 1670 m3 Large European Acoustic Facility (LEAF) opened to handle the composite of about 30t/7m width and 14m long. [Image Date: 01-01-97] [97.01.011-073]