Whether travelling near Earth or deep in our Solar System, every spacecraft is supported by a sophisticated ground segment comprising computers, software, telecommunications and other resources that enable engineers to send up commands and receive data from the on board instruments.
We are specialists in designing, building and maintaining ground segments for satellite missions. We design, build and maintain deep-space tracking stations, provide flight dynamics, navigation and mission-analysis services and develop some of Europe’s best mission control software — now in use by industries as diverse as air traffic control and energy distribution.
ESA's ground systems engineering team works with commercial partners to advance the state of European space technology, boosting industrial competitiveness. We provide state-of-the-art services and cooperate closely with European national space agencies, NASA and many other international organisations.
Young Graduate Trainees
We regularly offer attractive positions under ESA's YGT programme. Trainees are tutored by experienced staff members and develop unique expertise in space software development. For more information, access the YGT section of the ESA website.
