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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From Ariane 6's inaugural flight to the graduation of the Astronaut Class of 2022, and breathtaking moments like Juice's Earth-Moon portrait and James Webb's glimpse of a massive cluster’s birth, 2024 has been a remarkable year of discovery and innovation for the European Space Agency.
Witness the marvel of Earth from space at the Burning Man festival, Proba-3’s laser-precise formation flying, and the first metal part 3D printed in orbit. Science took a frosty twist with the Mpemba effect at Concordia, while Mars Express celebrated 25 000 orbits with a stunning new image. And that’s just the beginning!
Explore these highlights and more in our Year in Images 2024 collection – a celebration of the incredible milestones achieved this year.