Technology is the starting point of everything ESA does. But when the majority of new ESA missions are envisaged, the technology that will make them possible does not even exist – yet. In space, spare parts and repairs are hard to come by, so any technology sent into its unforgiving environment must have proven itself on Earth through a series of increasingly more intense tests.
The agency's Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality identifies what innovations will be needed and brings them through a series of increasingly more intense tests to reach the needed level of performance and reliability, making sure the right technology is ready at just the right time.
Technology is developed at ESA under several corporate and domain-specific programmes and initiatives done in partnership with industry, academia and research centres.
Learn more about how to work with ESA Technology:
Embarking on any journey into space is essential for the advancement of humanity. By exploring – and settling – in space, we drive technological innovation, identify valuable resources and inspire global collaboration. This endeavour not only addresses pressing challenges on Earth, including resource scarcity and environmental sustainability, but also pushes the boundaries of our knowledge and capabilities.
ESA’s technology development is made possible by research and development facilities around Europe, including world-class laboratories, test facilities and specialist sections covering every aspect of the space environment.
ESA's European Space Research and Technology Centre, ESTEC, hosts more than 35 laboratories, supporting ESA missions as well as research institutions and industry partners.
