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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NGC 2440 is a planetary nebula ejected by a dying star. The nebula is rich in clouds of dust, some of which form long, dark streaks pointing away from the central star. In addition to the bright nebula seen here, NGC 2440 is surrounded by a much larger cloud of cooler gas.