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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The view from Concordia research station in Antartctica.
Temperatures can drop to –80°C and the Sun does not rise above the horizon for around four months, leaving the base in permanent darkness. The crew have only themselves to rely on – there can be no help from the outside under these harsh conditions.
ESA sponsors a medical research doctor in Concordia every winter to study the long-term effects of isolation.