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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Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana is gearing up for the arrival of Ariane 6, Europe’s next-generation launch vehicle. This aerial view from December 2020 shows the main elements of the new launch complex.
The service facilities area (foreground) leads by road to the Ariane 6 launch vehicle assembly building. In the background is the 8200 tonne 90 metre-high mobile gantry which will house Ariane 6 before launch, and the water tower to the right which will provide the water that will quell the fiery plumes at liftoff.