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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ESA's Propulsion and Aerothermodynamics division investigated the impact of the Vega engine plume at the moment of launch from the concrete surroundings of its ELA-1 pad, as its solid rocket motor produced a shower of burning propellant particles. A model of the pad, including the flame trench intended to vent this exhaust away, was created along with a model of Vega itself.