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 astronaut Alexander Gerst took this image of Great Salt Lake in Utah, USA, from the International Space Station, 400 km above our planet.
The lake is one of the largest salt water lakes in the world, collecting water from rivers but not flowing out to sea. As water evaporates it leaves salt and other minerals behind so the lake is getting saltier all the time.
The distinctive difference in colour is caused by a railway crossing that impairs water flow. Consequently one side of the lake is more salty that shows even from space.
Alexander is sharing his six-month Blue Dot mission through images like these. Follow his mission via alexandergerst.esa.int