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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The Huginn and Muninn patches are merged into one visual to symbolise the Scandinavian alliance in space. The image shows two ravens protecting Earth with their wings, with the Danish and Swedish flags in the background and the bow of a Viking ship in the middle. The stars resemble the Viking symbols for safe travels and protection.
Legend has it that two ravens were sent to fly over the whole world to whisper all they could hear and see in their god’s ear. These inquisitive birds from Norse mythology were called Huginn and Muninn. Together, the two symbolise thought and memory.
The myth inspired the mission names for ESA astronauts Andreas Mogensen and Marcus Wandt. Their missions are called Huginn and Muninn, respectively. Just as the two mythological ravens, the two Scandinavians are looking down on our planet and its people to bring benefits back to Earth.
Follow Marcus's and Andreas's journeys on the Muninn and Huginn pages.