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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Exosat being prepared for launch from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. The medium-energy and low-energy instruments are protected by their shutters on the right-hand face. These shutters were opened in orbit to act as sun shades for the telescopes. The rotatable solar array is visible at the top of the spacecraft. [Image Date: 01-07-83] [83.07.005-048]