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
Go to topicThank you for liking
You have already liked this page, you can only like it once!
Infographic created for ESA's astronaut selection campaign.
For the first time in over a decade, ESA is looking for new astronauts. These recruits will work alongside ESA’s existing astronauts as Europe enters a new era of space exploration.
Applying to become an ESA astronaut is an exciting and rare opportunity. ESA has only recruited new astronauts three times since 1978.
Becoming an astronaut is no easy feat. Due to the importance of this role for ESA, Europe, and the world, we expect a high calibre of applicants for our 2021-22 selection campaign.
The role of an ESA astronaut is continually evolving. As we travel beyond the International Space Station, and go forward to the Moon, astronauts must be ready to adapt to new challenges in exploration far away from home.
At ESA, diversity is an asset. Our team is made up of many different people from a range of cultural, personal and professional backgrounds. Rather than excelling in any one area, it is most important for astronauts to be well-rounded team players who demonstrate competence across a wide range of tasks and disciplines.
Get the latest news and more information at www.esa.int/YourWayToSpace