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 topicAll the rear doors of the Antonov are opened only a few minutes after landing and reveal the huge cargo space within the aircraft. Moments later, the Payload Module (PLM) container is ready for unloading using the aircraft's internal crane system. Metal strips are laid on the runway. They provide a smooth surface to roll the container towards the train, which will take it to the integration hall.