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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A last view of Hera in its launch configuration before being encapsulated within its Falcon 9 launcher fairing, resting atop its launcher adapter. All 'red tag' items have been removed and its solar arrays no longer have protective covers, and the spacecraft is fully wrapped in multi-layer insulation, including across its High Gain Antenna. This image was acquired on 3 October 2024.