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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Ministerial Council 2016 proposal for Vega E.
Continue the preparation of Vega-E (Vega Evolution) with focus on a LOX/methane engine for future upper stage replacing the current Zefiro 9 and AVUM, better responding to market needs both in terms of cost and performance, and reducing dependence on non-European sources. To that end, (i) completion of the Small Spacecraft Mission Service (SSMS) project, to respond to the growing demand of small satellites, and (ii) detailed design activities for the Vega New Upper Stage (VENUS) electric propulsion module.