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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In October 2018 a European rocket will launch the largest astronomical space telescope ever built. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), is an international collaboration between NASA, ESA and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). It will use infrared light to study the birth and evolution of planets, stars and galaxies throughout our cosmic history, advancing our understanding of the Universe.
JWST represents the next step for visible and infrared space astronomy after the Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990, first opened new doors into our Universe. NASA, ESA and CSA have teamed up to build this extraordinary piece of science engineering. Expectations are high as the telescope and its instruments are currently finishing integration and undergoing major testing at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Centre. This video includes interviews with ESA and NASA managers.