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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Getting a spacecraft off the ground is hard enough, but getting it back to Earth again can prove even harder.. Atmospheric re-entry is in fact one of those moments when ground control holds its breath and hopes for the best. Soon, IXV – ESA’s Intermediate Experimental Vehicle- will give Europe the chance to test new re-entry technologies during its flight.