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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Right now, satellites are single use only. They are discarded because of running low on fuel, a failure or outdated equipment. True sustainable spaceflight means creating a circular economy in space, with developing in-orbit servicing as the way forward.
That is why the long-term vision for sustainability of ESA's Space Safety programme includes building a circular economy in space. A tough technological challenge? Yes. Yet it is no longer the realm of sci-fi, we can get there one technological step at a time.