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
Go to topicERS-2 SAR data was used to investigate the effects of forest fires in the East Kilmantan region of Borneo, in 1997/98. Optical satellite systems were severely limited by smoke and haze - no obstacles for SAR. Burnt areas are visible in different shades of yellow to orange which can be related to different damage levels of the vegetation. Unburned vegetation appears in blue. Photo: ESA