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
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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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The Vega P80 thrust vector control system validation model, a structural model representative of the interstage 0/1 stiffness and the actuator attachment points, with a pressure vessel for the nozzle flexible joint. The thrust cone is visible, inverted within the test apparatus. The exit of the nozzle is closed so that it and the flexible joint on which it moves can be pressurised to simulate flight conditions. The pressurisation system is below the metallic floor.