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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This image depicts the qualification model of the thermal shields and intermediate structure in the Cleanroom at Contraves, Zurich.
The thermal shields protect the telescope and instruments from infrared radiation emitted by the much warmer service module. The intermediate structure mechanically couples the telescope and other payload components to the service module while maintaining thermal isolation.
The qualification model of the spacecraft structure will be tested to validate the mechanical design.