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 Samantha Cristoforetti (IT) is scheduled to fly on a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station, on its fourth crewed operational flight called Crew-4, scheduled for launch in April 2022. She will fly with NASA astronauts Kjell Lindgren, Jessica Watkins and Robert Hines.
In this patch design, rays of light streak across the blackness of space, preceding the dawn of a new chapter in human spaceflight. The Dragon capsule forms the thorax of the central element of the patch, the dragonfly – a beautiful and agile flyer. For many, the dragonfly represents transformation and good fortune.
On its way to the International Space Station, the capsule appears suspended in orbit with Earth below and Moon above. Four bright stars represent the four crew members’ families for their patience, love and support. The remaining stars represent the countless members of the NASA, SpaceX and international partner teams, whose ingenuity, vigilance and tireless work makes this mission possible. Spacecraft commander Kjell Lindgren added, "Best of all — it was designed by the brilliant Alexandra Lindgren!"