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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Rick Brink was a judge in the #NameTheMission competition, to find a new name for ESA's upcoming spacecraft to monitor the Sun, formerly known as Lagrange. The winning name ESA 'Vigil', resonated with the judges as it captured the mission's role – as a devoted guardian, keeping constant watch over the Sun, for Earth.
Rick is from Hardenberg, a small town in the province of Overijssel, the Netherlands, and in 2019 was chosen as the very first Minister of Disability Affairs for the country. Rick previously also worked as a HR advisor as well as holding various other positions in politics.
Rick now runs a consultancy that helps organisations with issues relating to diversity and inclusion. Through these positions, he works to strengthen the position of people in the Netherlands who live with a disability.