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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Space Shuttle Endeavour arrived at the International Space Station on 18 May 2011 at 12:14 CEST (10:14 GMT) after chasing it in space following launch two days earllier. The 12 astronauts are now working together.
The hatches between the Shuttle and the International Space Station (ISS) were opened at 13:38 CEST after leak tests.
ESA astronaut Roberto Vittori and his five crewmates floated into the Station at 14:36 CEST, where they were welcomed by the Expedition 27 crew, including another of ESA’s Italian astronauts, Paolo Nespoli.