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 Synergistic Air-Breathing Rocket Engine, or SABRE, seen in place on a Skylon spaceplane. Designed by UK company Reaction Engines Ltd, this unique engine will use atmospheric air in the early part of the flight before switching to rocket mode for the final ascent to orbit. The concept paves the way for true spaceplanes – lighter, reusable and able to fly from conventional runways. Reaction Engines plan for SABRE to power a 84 m-long pilotless vehicle called Skylon, which would do the same job as today’s rockets while operating like an aeroplane, potentially revolutionising access to space.