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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In this image, Plato is situated on top of ESA’s QUAD shaker to simulate the vibrations encountered during launch. This test was essential to make sure Plato can survive the first two minutes of launch, during which the most extreme shocks are encountered.
[Image description: The structural model of Plato sits on top of the QUAD shaker at ESA’s ESTEC Test Centre. Plato’s structural model has 26 cylindrical shaped cameras attached. Plato sits on top of an octagonal-shaped shaker built into the floor.]