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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On 12 March 2021, Mount Etna erupted and produced a series of paroxysmal episodes resulting in tephra and sulphate emissions with the volcanic plume drifting eastwards over the eastern Mediterranean region. Red lines in the map show flight segments that crossed pass the volcanic ash plume with wind data from ESA’s Aeolus mission between 12 and 13 March 2021.
Forecasting volcanic ash in the atmosphere is crucial for aviation, as ash can interfere with aircraft navigational instruments and can even damage engine parts. A new study, using wind data from ESA’s Aeolus mission, highlights the importance of using satellite missions like Aeolus to improve volcanic ash forecasting and ensure aviation safety in the future.
Read full story: Aeolus enhances volcanic ash forecasts for aviation safety