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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Francois Gosselin was the winner of the #NameTheMission contest, with his entry "Vigil".
“I am deeply honored that the European Space Agency selected my proposed name, Vigil, for their upcoming solar mission,” explains Francois Gosselin, winner of the #NameTheMission campaign with his submission, Vigil.
“Living in Canada, I have been all too aware of the impact solar activity can have on Earth, such as the 1989 power outage in Quebec caused by a large solar flare.”
Vigil, from the Latin "Vigilis Exceptus", meaning "sentry" was my inspiration for this ESA mission name. Sentry, watching the Sun for incoming events and alerting us perfectly reflects the mission objective.”