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 topicDutch ESA astronaut Andre Kuipers during winter survival training ahead of the DELTA Mission to the ISS. When returning to Earth, there is the possibility that the Soyuz lands in a highly inaccessible area. It could take a while for the crew to be recovered, meanwhile they have to use all the materials available to them in the Soyuz to set up camp.