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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Ariane Flight VA207: A sunset launch window, limited clouds and excellent visibility combined to provide a postcard-like view of Ariane 5’s ascent from French Guiana during today’s successful mission with the EchoStar XVII and MSG-3 satellite payloads. This photo shows the liftoff and climb-out from the Spaceport’s ELA-3 launch complex, with Ariane 5 powered by its Vulcain 2 cryogenic main engine and two solid propellant boosters. The excellent viewing conditions also enabled Ariane 5’s downrange trajectory to be followed, including separation of the solid boosters at an altitude of 67 km, and the payload fairing’s jettison at a 107-km altitude.