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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Watch the Vulcain 2.1 engine for Ariane 6 roar into action as it performed its acceptance test at ArianeGroup’s testing facility in Vernon, France on 21 July 2020.
The engine and test bench were fitted with 80 specific measurement sensors to characterise acoustics. The data will be used to predict levels that will be observed on the launch pad during upcoming combined tests at Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.
The cryogenic Vulcain 2.1 engine delivers 1371 kN thrust in a vacuum. It will power Ariane 6 for the first eight minutes of flight, alongside the boosters which will operate for about 130 seconds – together these two propulsion systems provide a total lift-off thrust of about 8002 kN in the two-booster A62 configuration.