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
Go to topicThe proposed mission to explore the moon, in addition to further missions, will require the acceleration and deceleration of very heavy loads. This documentary explores the use of nuclear propulsion to complement the chemical fuels used in today's rockets. Includes: a Saturn 5 rocket on its launchpad, launch and flight [including stage separation and air-ground shots]; the concept of substituting a nuclear 3rd stage to increase payload velocity; 1950s research in New Mexico to determine the feasibility of nuclear energy in rocket propulsion; development of engine technology via the NERVA [Nuclear Engine For Rocket Vehicle Applications] project, engine testing; a description of how this technology may be used for a theoretical mission to Mars.