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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Space may seem vast, but orbits around Earth are a limited natural resource. Millions of debris fragments now fill these orbits, which threaten any spacecraft that crosses their path.
Satellite technology is relied on around the world and will become even more so. As such, it is increasingly important to protect the unique orbital regions where vital data is gathered for weather forecasting, climate research, communications and location services.
There are many trends that threaten the long-term sustainability of space - increasing space traffic, more complex space operations and large constellations to name a few - but there are also approaches to secure our sustainabile future.
Find out more about how we can tackle space debris and secure near-Earth space for future generations in the joint ESA-UNOOSA podcast that narrates this infographic.