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 Fluid Science Laboratory (FSL) is being developed by ESA to study fluid physics under microgravity aboard the Agency's Columbus Laboratory attached to the International Space Station. The facility will focus on research involving fluid dynamics; flows and instabilities induced by surface-tension gradients and thermal radiation forces; double diffusive instabilities; interfacial tension and absorption; mechanisms of boiling; critical-point phenomena; crystal growth; directional solidification; etc. Researchers will be able to select from a variety of lighting sources (white light, monochromatic) to view their test subjects. A series of interferometric techniques such as Electronic Speckle Pattern interferometry, Wollaston/Schlieren interferometry, and holographic interferometry are also available. Imaging techniques range from visual to infrared CCD cameras. [Image Date: 1997] [97.07.007-002]