King Philippe of Belgium visited the ESA centre in Redu, Belgium, on 17 March 2015.
After a presentation by Jean-Jacques Dordain, ESA Director General, of Redu activities that have increased and diversified over recent years, the King took guided tour around the installation, the only ESA site in Belgium, located amid the forests of the Belgian Ardennes.
At the end of the visit, Elke Sleurs, Belgian Secretary of State for Science Policy, thanked ESA Director General for his long and distinguished career and for the energy he invested in Europe’s space endeavours.
Jean-Jacques Dordain gained official recognition from the King for his continuous efforts in promoting and supporting the Europe’s space interests and activities in his capacity as ESA Director General. He was awarded Grand Officer in the Order of the Crown by the King.