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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The Galileo Kiruna ground station inauguration on 13 December 2010 began with a candlelit procession to pierce the winter gloom: the ceremony was scheduled to coincide with the feast day of St. Lucy, a popular Swedish celebration. As is traditional, the parade was led by one young woman representing ‘Lucia’, wearing a crown of lights.