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
Go to topicA CSG video made in 1992, about Europe's Spaceport, the Centre Spatial Guyanais, in Kourou French Guiana. It includes detailed footage of all stages of preparation for an Ariane 4 launch, from building in Europe, shipping by barge, Toucan and air to French Guiana, integration of a commercial satellite, rollout, launch preparation, launch, booster separation. Note that mainly features Ariane 4, being prior to the initial launch of Ariane 5. It also contains aerial views of the CSG site. 7:24 mins, English sound.