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 22 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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Nearly 30 scientists and instrument specialists venture deep below for the fifth Mine Analogue Research sortie at the Boulby mine in northeast England.
Preparations for the expedition and sample collection follow strict protocols that could one day be replicated on other planets. Some of the activities are very similar to training for a spacewalk: there is isolation, complete darkness and the need to communicate efficiently with the rest of the team.
They use life-detection equipment, drills and cameras for robotic and human exploration.