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 Pedro Duque, NASA astronaut Jessica Meir and Ricky Arnold, Japanese astronaut Aki Hoshide, Chinese astronaut Ye Guangfu and Russian astronaut Sergei Korsakov during ESA's underground training course for astronauts in 2016.
Moving in a cave, either horizontally using cables and tethers or vertically with climbing equipment, requires continuous attention, skilful use of tools and a healthy trust in the equipment. Underground ‘cavewalks’ are similar to spacewalks because they require safety tethering, 3D orientation, staying clear of dangerous areas, and careful planning and teamwork.