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 topicESA project astronaut Marcus Wandt
ESA project astronaut Marcus Wandt from Sweden travelled to the International Space Station on Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) in January 2024. He spent 20 days in orbit conducting microgravity research and educational activities.
Marcus is the fifth ESA astronaut to fly on a Dragon spacecraft, and did so as mission specialist. The Ax-3 crew of four astronauts launched into space on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The astronaut from Sweden is the first of a new generation of European astronauts to fly on a commercial human spaceflight opportunity with Axiom Space. His mission is supported by ESA and the Swedish National Space Agency. Europe is teaming with a commercial space company to show how fast-track, short-duration missions can generate good science, outreach and education for a better life on Earth.