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 inverted Descent Module is shown connected by the (3) separation/ejection devices to the black, carbon fibre support ring that provides attachment to (and remains with) the Cassini spacecraft. The spin vanes that generate rotation during descent can be seen around the periphery of the forward dome. The three instruments (ACP, GCMS, SSP) that penetrate the front of the dome to sense the atmosphere (and surface) can be seen in profile. Two of the four planar antennas of the radar altimeter, which measures the Probe's altitude during descent, can be seen with (pink) protective covers. [Image Date: 01-01-97] [97.05.006-003]