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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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, STS-128 Mission Specialists Patrick Forrester (left) and Christer Fuglesang wait for cool air to be pumped through their launch-and-entry suits before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The White Room is at the end of the orbiter access arm and provides entry into the shuttle. Mission crewmembers are at KSC to take part in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which culminates in a simulated launch countdown inside the Shuttle.