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 topicIn June 2005 the Structural Thermal Model (STM) of the SMOS Payload Module underwent vibration tests, which simulated the vibrations it will experience during launch. Subsequently, it was subjected to a high-level acoustic noise tests, which simulated the acoustic environment of the launcher. The test campaign concluded with a Thermal Balance test in the Large Space Simulator to ensure the payload will withstand the temperatures it will be exposed to when in orbit.