Reaching into space

© ESA/DLR/FU Berlin (G. Neukum)

From his earliest days, Man has been fascinated by the stars above. Viewing them with the naked eye, he gave them names, and incorporated them into his mythologies. Poets have marvelled, philosophers and scientists throughout the ages have sought to comprehend their natures and workings. The sun, source of light and warmth for life on Earth, has held a central position in the religions and worldviews of civilisations from time immemorial.

Space technology has given us the tools to pursue our intrinsic curiosity to push back the boundaries of knowledge, to explore our surroundings in the widest sense, and has given us access to wondrous, exciting and sometimes startling discoveries.