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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The sunny side of the Moon is hotter than boiling water, but the night side is colder than anywhere on Earth. Lunar temperatures vary from 123 degrees Celsius in the day and down to minus 233 degrees Celsius permanently shadowed polar craters.
Image description: Half of the Moon wears a scarf, the other half has sunglasses . Two thermometers show minus 233 degrees Celsius and 123 degrees Celsius.