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 Thomas Pesquet riding Canadarm2 during the first spacewalk of his Alpha mission on 16 June 2021.
Thomas shared this image on his social media channels with the caption:"On the arm. It was probably the most impressive experience I’ve ever had but it was not easy. I will never forget the robotic arm ride while holding equipment that is three times my weight. The slightest movement increased its inertia (thankfully Megan is the world champion robotic arm operator). Visually it was a bit like holding a fridge upside down, while holding on with my feet over a 300 km cliff face #humblebrag. Quite a few things didn’t go according to plan but I am immensely proud of the team that fought to find solutions. Shane exudes professionalism at all times, the ground teams and control centre were on point, and then there were our incredible colleagues driving the robotic arm and getting us into the suits (and out again). I might still be on an adrenaline high, but I don’t think you can find a better team. We are going to try to get some rest and consider the follow-up operations."
Follow Thomas and his Mission Alpha on his blog.