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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Generated view of Mars behind the Sun when viewed from Earth during the solar conjunction of 2023.
During conjunction, it is difficult or even impossible to exchange data between spacecraft at Mars and ground stations on Earth as the solar corona or, rarely, the disc of the Sun itself, interfere or obstruct radio communication.
Created using the orbit visualisation tool of ESA's Planetary Defence Office.