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 topicImage of the coast of Cuba taken in January 2002 by Proba using motion compensation.
PROBA (Project for On-Board Autonomy) weighs less than 100 kg yet packs a powerful punch. Launched on 22 October by an Indian PSLV launch vehicle, it is the first small mission of ESA dedicated to technological demonstration. PROBA is expected to operate for one year. It is a project of the ESA GSTP program, with Verhaert (B) as Prime contractor, as well as a number of other European and Canadian subcontractors.
Credits: Verhaert, SIRA and ESA