The European Space Agency has stepped up its game in commercial space tourism. Through targeted research and collaboration, ESA digs into technical feasibility, builds private sector partnerships, and crafts regulatory guidelines for European operations.
ESA doesn’t just sit back and watch; they get their hands dirty with tech assessments and strategic alliances. They aim to stay ahead by keeping their finger on the pulse of this fast-moving field.
Back in 2007, ESA kicked off deep research into space tourism with its General Studies Program. They ran the “Study of European privately-funded vehicles for commercial human space flight” to get a grip on where the industry was heading.
The final results came out at ESTEC in the Netherlands on November 7. This study gave ESA a clearer picture of commercial spaceflight capabilities and what the market might look like.
Afterward, ESA set up an internal group to hammer out recommendations. All the Directors signed off on these findings on April 14, 2008.
ESA noticed some strong similarities between space tourism’s growth and how aviation took off in the 20th century. They figured reusable suborbital vehicles would eventually bring costs down as tech and operations improved.
ESA keeps awarding contracts to survey European companies working in space tourism. These contracts cover everything from vehicle design to business planning, so ESA can stay updated on market trends.
ESA doesn’t shy away from teaming up with private space tourism developers. They share their know-how in astronaut training and space medicine, making sure preparation programs for tourists are solid.
Private companies tap into ESA’s huge tech portfolio and ongoing research. ESA sets up voluntary platforms for European players to swap ideas and expertise.
They’ve rolled out frameworks to award up to three contracts to European space tourism companies for specialized studies. This way, different organizations bring their own spin to the table.
ESA invites European space tourism companies to submit their plans. Members of the General Studies Program look these over and pick the most promising ones for further work.
ESA walks a careful line—they want to help, but not meddle in the competitive market. Still, they bring a ton of experience and a bold vision for how Europe can use space.
ESA works closely with civil aviation authorities and other regulators to shape legal frameworks for space tourism in Europe. They’re not just making rules—they’re building operational guidelines that make sense for everyone involved.
ESA also teamed up with the World Tourism Forum Lucerne to create rules for a sustainable space tourism sector. This partnership tackles environmental concerns and supports industry growth.
They put a big focus on minimizing environmental impact. ESA always has one eye on long-term feasibility when it comes to new tourism initiatives.
Their regulatory work covers safety standards, operational procedures, and making sure cross-border flights run smoothly. ESA’s framework deals with the tricky bits of commercial spaceflight in European airspace.
ESA has rolled out several big initiatives to boost space tourism in Europe. These programs help entrepreneurs get commercial spaceflight ventures off the ground and build strong partnerships across the sector.
ESA Space Solutions stands as the world’s largest space innovation network. The program backs European startups and small businesses working on space tourism ventures that use satellite tech and data.
Entrepreneurs get access to ESA’s technical know-how and funding. The program supports new services that use space technology to tackle real challenges in tourism.
Key features include:
ESA recently joined forces with the European Commission and European Investment Bank. This partnership finds promising space projects in Europe and helps fund them for commercial growth.
ESA also lends a hand to companies building legal frameworks for space tourism. They work with civil aviation authorities to set safety standards and operational rules.
In 2025, ESA signed a memorandum of intent with the World Tourism Forum Lucerne. This partnership pushes sustainable innovation in travel and tourism through space-based applications.
Together, they promote safe and sustainable growth in space tourism. They’re big on using connectivity and digital tech to transform the sector.
Partnership goals:
This agreement helps bring new technologies that connect traditional tourism with space-based services. It’s a step toward bridging Earth-based travel and the new frontier of space tourism.
ESA brings in the tech expertise, while the World Tourism Forum Lucerne shares industry know-how. They’re building frameworks that support responsible space tourism.
ESA Business Incubation Centers play a vital role in Europe’s space tourism scene. These centers give entrepreneurs the tools they need to launch commercial spaceflight businesses.
The centers offer tailored support for space tourism companies. Startups get technical help, business development advice, and access to ESA’s industry network.
Services at the centers:
Right now, three private companies are working with ESA to develop solid business plans. These partnerships focus on launching safe, viable space tourism ventures in European airspace.
The centers also encourage information sharing among European developers. This collaborative vibe helps companies learn from each other while still staying competitive.
Advanced space tech forms the backbone of Europe’s growing commercial space tourism sector. Satellite networks keep flights connected, digital systems change the passenger experience, and Earth observation data helps operators run things smoothly.
Modern space tourism depends on satellite connectivity to keep spacecraft linked with ground control. Companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin use dedicated satellite networks to track vehicles and keep passengers safe during suborbital flights.
Ground teams use real-time data to check on tourists’ vital signs. This connection is crucial for emergencies. Passengers can even send messages or share their journey with family back on Earth.
European satellite operators cover launch sites on different continents. Pre-flight briefings happen over high-def video links, and ground control uses satellite data to make split-second calls about flight paths and landings.
New tech in satellite miniaturization cuts down communication costs for tourism companies. Smaller satellites now provide the same coverage at a fraction of the price.
Space tourism companies have gone digital to make booking and training easier. Virtual reality systems let tourists practice zero-gravity before the real thing.
Automated flight control reduces human error during tricky mission phases. Digital health monitoring keeps track of passengers the whole way. Families on the ground get real-time flight updates through mobile apps.
Operators use sensor networks for predictive spacecraft maintenance. Digital twin tech creates virtual models to test safety protocols, slashing maintenance costs and boosting safety records.
Blockchain locks down passenger data and flight records. Digital payment platforms make international bookings a breeze.
Earth observation satellites deliver crucial weather data for safe space tourism. Launch windows depend on precise atmospheric info that only satellites can provide.
Satellite images help spot the best landing zones for returning spacecraft. Ground teams coordinate recovery in remote spots using this data.
Space-based sensors keep an eye on debris fields that might threaten tourist vehicles. This system shields passengers from collision risks in orbit.
Satellites also track environmental factors to make sure launch sites meet noise and emissions regulations.
Tourism operators use satellite data to pick out scenic flight paths over famous landmarks. Passengers get better views thanks to these high-tech mapping systems.
The commercial space tourism industry owes a lot to bold entrepreneurs and innovative companies. They took space travel from something only governments did and turned it into an experience for regular people.
These pioneers built reusable spacecraft and created the rules that make today’s commercial space operations possible.
Virgin Galactic really became the face of space tourism, thanks to Richard Branson’s vision and knack for marketing. The company built SpaceShipOne, which won the Ansari X Prize in 2004 by flying to 100 kilometers twice in two weeks.
SpaceShipOne showed the world that private companies could reach space safely and without breaking the bank. Its hybrid rocket motor and feathering reentry system set the stage for future designs.
Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo fleet took those ideas further, creating the first real commercial space tourism service. The company’s test flights and safety checks set new industry standards.
Key Virgin Galactic milestones:
Their flashy marketing got everyone talking about space tourism. That buzz drew in investment and public interest, helping the whole industry grow.
A bunch of companies have designed new spacecraft that changed how civilians get to space. Each design brings something different to the table—cost, safety, passenger experience, you name it.
Blue Origin built the New Shepard, which flies itself and has big windows for amazing Earth views. The capsule keeps passengers comfy and safe with multiple backup systems.
SpaceX reworked its Dragon spacecraft for civilian missions, making multi-day orbital flights possible. Their reusable Falcon 9 rockets have dropped launch costs for everyone.
These vehicles use advanced life support, emergency escape systems, and easy-to-use controls for folks who aren’t professional astronauts. The competition between companies has really sped up tech improvements and safety.
Manufacturers also rolled out special training gear and simulators. These tools help prepare civilians for the weird sensations and mental challenges of spaceflight.
European entrepreneurs saw the promise of space tourism and came up with their own approaches. Several companies now cater to European customers and work within local regulations.
The European Space Agency started backing private spaceflight projects by sharing policy advice and technical knowledge. ESA figured that commercial space tourism could follow the aviation industry, with reusable vehicles eventually making flights more affordable.
European companies often focus on suborbital experiences and specialized training. Many also offer scientific research opportunities alongside the thrill of space.
Some notable European moves:
European entrepreneurs also help with spacecraft parts and mission support. Their skills in aerospace engineering and precision manufacturing make the whole industry stronger.
This teamwork between governments and private players has created a great environment for space tourism in Europe. Other regions have started to notice and borrow this public-private partnership model.
ESA gets involved in human spaceflight in more ways than just government missions. The agency now works with commercial partners and supports space tourism too.
ESA offers its know-how in crew training, safety, and flight operations for both orbital missions and the new suborbital tourism flights. That expertise has become pretty critical as private companies push into space.
Commercial space missions give passengers a totally different vibe than the old-school astronaut flights. On orbital missions, people spend several days in microgravity, which gives them time to get used to weightlessness and check out Earth from the International Space Station.
Before launch, passengers go through a lot of prep at special facilities. They get briefed on spacecraft systems and learn what to do in emergencies.
During ascent, passengers feel about 3-4 g-forces before hitting the weightless zone of orbit.
Orbital Mission Timeline:
During their stay, passengers join scientific experiments and educational activities. They keep in touch with Earth through scheduled video calls and social media.
The trip wraps up with a controlled descent and landing, which could be on land or at sea, depending on the spacecraft.
ESA brings a lot of experience to astronaut training for commercial missions. Training programs usually last 3-6 months and cover spacecraft systems, emergency situations, and some basic science work.
Physical fitness standards aren’t as tough as traditional astronaut programs, but they’re still pretty demanding. Candidates go through medical checks, including heart stress tests and psychological screenings.
Most programs set age limits between 18 and 65, though some medical histories might rule people out.
Core Training Components:
Safety is a huge deal. Spacecraft come with backup life support and abort systems for every phase of flight.
Designers add multiple backup systems for critical stuff like oxygen and carbon dioxide control.
Since 2001, the Russian Soyuz spacecraft has carried most commercial passengers to orbit. This three-module ship has a long track record for reliability and safety.
Soyuz launches from Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. It reaches orbit in just about 8 minutes, then docks with the station after 6 hours or sometimes 2 days, depending on the orbit.
Commercial passengers ride in the third seat with professional astronauts. The descent module lands in the Kazakhstan steppes using parachutes and retro-rockets.
Recovery teams get to the landing site within 30-60 minutes after touchdown.
Mission Characteristics:
ESA astronauts often serve as commanders on these missions, giving the crew technical guidance and leadership.
ESA focuses on carbon-neutral space operations and develops environmental monitoring tech. The agency works on eco-friendly spaceport infrastructure and supports sustainable development goals with space-based solutions.
ESA ties its space tourism work to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. It aims for carbon neutrality in all space operations by 2050.
Space tourism companies need to balance environmental protection with business growth. ESA requires private operators to show their sustainability plans before they get the green light.
The agency also supports technology transfer programs that help Earth. Materials and energy systems built for space often end up advancing clean tech back home.
ESA’s sustainability plan focuses on three main things:
Private space operators work with ESA on astronaut training that highlights environmental stewardship. These programs help space tourists see their part in protecting both Earth and space.
ESA creates satellite tools that track the environmental impact of space tourism. These systems measure rocket emissions, debris, and atmospheric changes.
Copernicus satellites send real-time data about launch site conditions. They monitor air quality, noise, and wildlife around European spaceports.
Space-based sensors keep tabs on carbon emissions from suborbital flights. ESA shares this info with tourism operators to help them boost fuel efficiency and shrink their environmental footprints.
The monitoring network includes:
ESA teams up with the World Tourism Forum Lucerne to use space data for sustainable tourism. This partnership even supports connectivity solutions, which can help cut down on ground travel.
ESA sets environmental rules for European spaceport construction and operations. Spaceports have to meet strict carbon emission limits and use renewable energy.
Facilities use solar panels and wind energy. Ground equipment runs on clean electricity to keep carbon footprints low.
Water recycling systems help launch sites use fewer resources. ESA requires spaceports to treat and reuse all wastewater from both rocket fuel processing and facility operations.
Noise reduction tech protects neighbors and wildlife. Sound barriers and optimized flight paths help keep launches quieter.
ESA encourages reusable launch vehicles to cut down on manufacturing waste. Companies using multi-flight spacecraft get priority access to European launch sites and extra technical support.
The space tourism industry is opening up new hospitality markets and shaking up how travel businesses work. Space hotels need special service standards that combine aerospace safety with luxury hospitality.
Space tourism companies now team up with traditional travel operators to offer full packages. These bundles mix pre-flight hotel stays, astronaut training, and post-flight celebrations into one big vacation.
Virgin Galactic partners with luxury hotels near its New Mexico site. Guests can book rooms with flight simulators and space-themed perks to extend their experience.
Travel agencies are learning how to handle space tourism bookings. They manage medical clearances, training, and insurance—stuff regular vacation planners rarely touch.
The hospitality industry sees more demand for premium accommodations near launch sites. Hotels in Florida and New Mexico are getting more bookings from space tourists and their families.
Space tourism often means longer vacations. Passengers need extra days for training and prep, which helps local hotels and businesses.
Orbital hotels could be the next big thing in space hospitality. Companies like Axiom Space want to run commercial stations that mix research with tourist stays.
Space hotels face some wild operational challenges. Staff need to be astronauts and hospitality pros at the same time, and food has to work in zero gravity.
Revenue models include per-night rates, full packages, and even corporate retreats. Space hotels can charge a premium since the experience is rare and exclusive.
Ground teams on Earth coordinate with orbital hotels. They handle bookings, guest prep, and emergencies from control centers.
Private space stations open up new hospitality careers. Hotel managers, chefs, and service staff need aerospace training along with their regular skills.
Space hotel amenities include viewing cupolas, zero-g exercise gear, and special sleeping pods. Facilities have to balance strict safety rules with guest comfort.
Space hospitality sets new service standards, putting safety on par with comfort. Staff training mixes traditional hospitality with emergency procedures unique to space.
Guest services start with orientation for moving in zero gravity. Staff help visitors get used to weightlessness while still delivering luxury.
Food service adapts regular cooking for space. Chefs craft gourmet meals using space-friendly methods and make sure nutrition meets space travel needs.
Daily operations include safety drills and constant contact with Earth-based support teams. It’s just part of the job now.
Customer service in space takes patience and some medical know-how. Guests might get motion sickness or feel off, so staff need to help with comfort and care.
Some of these space hospitality standards could eventually improve luxury travel here on Earth. Maybe hotels will borrow a few tricks from the stars.
Modern space tech has turned space tourism from a sci-fi dream into something real. Reusable rockets now fly regularly, and advanced crew vehicles keep passengers safe while they enjoy the view.
Reusable rockets have changed the economics of space tourism. Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin built rockets that land vertically and can fly again just weeks later.
The Falcon 9 can fly more than ten times before needing major work. That kind of reusability slashes launch costs by about 90% compared to older, disposable rockets.
Blue Origin’s New Shepard takes passengers to the edge of space and returns on the same engine. The whole system lands back at the launch site, ready for the next flight.
Key Benefits of Reusable Systems:
Virgin Galactic tries something different with its SpaceShipTwo. It launches from a carrier plane at high altitude, which saves fuel and avoids some weather issues.
Modern crew vehicles focus on passenger safety and comfort. Big windows offer amazing views of Earth and space.
Automated systems handle all the critical stuff, so passengers don’t have to worry. Computers control life support, keeping the cabin comfortable and safe.
Safety Features in Tourist Spacecraft:
The capsules use advanced materials to protect against heat and micrometeorites. Carbon fiber keeps things light but tough.
Inside, designers care more about the passenger experience than technical gear. Cabins are roomy enough for floating around, and restraint systems keep everyone safe during launch and landing.
Space technology keeps moving toward longer orbital tourism and visits to space stations. Who knows how far it’ll go?
The European Space Agency does a lot more than just launch rockets. ESA’s satellites help tourism destinations manage crowds and resources, and the agency builds partnerships between space tech and traditional tourism businesses.
ESA also works with private companies to develop new programs.
ESA satellites give tourism destinations the data they need to operate smarter. The Copernicus program delivers real-time info on weather, crowd density, and environmental conditions.
Tourism operators use ESA’s satellite images to track visitor flows at busy spots. This data helps avoid overcrowding at historic sites and parks.
Managers can point tourists to less crowded places using these insights.
ESA’s tech also monitors environmental changes that affect tourism. Satellites keep an eye on beach erosion, forest health, and water quality.
Tourism businesses use this info to protect natural attractions and plan better.
Weather data from ESA satellites helps airlines and cruise lines adjust routes and schedules. With more accurate forecasts, tourism companies can offer better service and avoid surprises.
ESA’s space technologies keep opening up new business opportunities for the tourism sector. Thanks to GPS navigation systems built on ESA’s Galileo constellation, tourists find attractions and restaurants with a lot less hassle.
ESA’s communication satellites bring reliable internet to remote tourism spots. Now, even hotels in isolated areas can offer high-speed internet to guests through satellite connections. This lets tourism expand into places that used to be off the map.
Adventure tourism companies benefit from ESA’s research into life support systems. Space mission technology leads to safer equipment for extreme activities like high-altitude climbing or deep-sea exploration.
ESA’s work in materials science results in lightweight, durable fabrics for outdoor gear. Tourism companies selling adventure equipment use these advanced materials that originally came from space suits and spacecraft.
ESA teams up with tourism companies to create new space-related experiences for travelers. The agency partners with private firms to build space centers and educational attractions that draw millions of visitors every year.
These partnerships bring in revenue that ESA puts back into scientific missions and technology development. Private companies contribute funding and operational know-how, while ESA shares technical expertise and credibility.
ESA connects with investors at conferences focused on space tourism development. The agency helps private companies find funding for spacecraft that carry civilian passengers.
Training centers supported by ESA get future space tourists ready for commercial flights. These facilities create jobs in the tourism sector and push human spaceflight capabilities forward. The partnership model lets ESA support commercial space tourism without directly investing in tourist spacecraft operations.
ESA navigates complex regulatory frameworks that demand coordination across many European nations. The agency’s collaborative approach with private companies helps it tap into the growing market and gives Europe a shot at becoming a major player in commercial spaceflight.
European space tourism faces a tangle of regulatory challenges across multiple jurisdictions. Each ESA member nation has its own aviation authority, so commercial spaceflight operations have to jump through a lot of hoops.
Cross-Border Regulatory Coordination
The fragmented regulatory landscape creates big barriers. For example, a suborbital flight leaving France and crossing into German airspace needs approvals from several civil aviation authorities. ESA tries to set up unified frameworks to make these processes smoother.
Current feasibility studies look at how existing aviation law fits commercial spaceflight. ESA works with national regulators to create consistent safety standards across Europe.
Safety Certification Standards
ESA balances innovation with passenger safety. The agency sets up comprehensive safety protocols that cover spacecraft design, pilot training, and passenger prep programs.
Medical certification requirements aren’t the same everywhere. Some countries want thorough health screenings, while others are more flexible for suborbital passengers.
European space tourism shows real economic promise even with current limitations. Market analysis points to strong demand from affluent Europeans looking for space experiences.
Technology Cost Reduction
Reusable spacecraft technology lowers operational costs. ESA’s studies suggest suborbital flight costs could drop by 60% in the next decade as tech improves.
Private companies use ESA’s astronaut training and space medicine knowledge to cut their own development costs.
Infrastructure Development
European spaceports need significant investment to support regular commercial operations. Portugal’s proposed spaceport and other potential sites in ESA member states represent big commitments.
Ground support systems need upgrades. Current facilities just can’t handle frequent tourist flights safely or efficiently yet.
Market Accessibility
Right now, space tourism is mostly for the wealthy. ESA’s collaborative model with private industry aims to open access as technology advances and prices fall.
American companies keep the pressure on, driving innovation. ESA pushes to set European offerings apart with unique training and safety standards.
ESA wants to see a thriving European space tourism sector built on decades of spaceflight expertise. The agency plans to make Europe a top destination for commercial space experiences.
Technology Transfer Programs
ESA’s advanced space medicine gives European operators a real edge. The agency offers specialized training that goes beyond basic safety.
Microgravity research facilities help with tourist prep and post-flight analysis. These resources let operators fine-tune passenger experiences and safety protocols.
International Collaboration
Strategic partnerships with NASA and other agencies strengthen Europe’s position in the global market. Joint training and shared safety standards cut down on operational complexity.
ESA keeps an eye on commercial spaceflight worldwide and looks for collaboration opportunities. The agency’s neutral stance makes it easier to build partnerships that benefit European operators.
Sustainable Growth Framework
Environmental concerns shape ESA’s long-term plans. The agency promotes sustainable space tourism practices to minimize atmospheric impact and space debris.
Workforce development programs get European aerospace professionals ready for commercial spaceflight careers. ESA’s training initiatives support industry growth across member nations.
Regional spaceport networks could serve different market segments. Northern Europe might focus on polar missions, while southern sites support equatorial launches.
Europe’s space tourism infrastructure depends a lot on smart site selection and specialized launch facilities. Key spots across the continent are getting developed to support commercial spaceflight.
European space agencies look at geographic and technical factors when picking spaceport sites. Northern regions like Sweden and Norway are great for polar orbit access. Southern sites work better for equatorial launches.
Kiruna, Sweden stands out as Europe’s main candidate for suborbital space tourism. The area offers vast, empty spaces for safe flight paths. Cold weather actually helps, giving longer operational windows year-round.
The Esrange Space Center in northern Sweden already hosts rocket launches and balloon missions. This existing setup cuts costs for space tourism operations. The facility can handle different types of spacecraft and mission profiles.
Portugal’s Santa Maria Island gives spacecraft returning from suborbital flights access to ocean recovery zones. The Atlantic location features clear airspace and little air traffic. Weather patterns allow for launches throughout the year.
Each site needs specialized ground support equipment. Cryogenic fuel storage systems have to work in all kinds of climates. Communications networks must have backup connections to mission control.
Launch sites act as full operational hubs for space tourism companies. Each location needs passenger processing, training centers, and medical support systems. The infrastructure goes way beyond just a rocket launch pad.
Passenger preparation areas include briefing rooms, suit fitting spaces, and pre-flight medical stations. Tourists need spots for last-minute training before flights. These areas must work for groups of different sizes and schedules.
Ground control centers track all flight phases from launch to landing. Tracking systems follow the spacecraft and keep in constant contact with pilots. Backup systems stay ready in case of emergencies.
Recovery operations need specialized vehicles and trained teams. Maritime zones use boat crews for water landings. Land-based sites rely on helicopters and ground vehicles for retrieval.
The European Space Agency lends technical expertise to private companies building these facilities. Their astronaut training programs serve as templates for tourist prep systems. Medical protocols developed for astronauts get adapted for civilian passengers.
Multiple launch sites give companies options when weather or technical issues pop up. Operators can move flights between locations as needed. This flexibility boosts mission success and keeps customers happy.
People often wonder about ESA’s role in space tourism, training requirements for tourists, and how to visit ESA facilities for educational trips. The questions cover everything from who can participate to how to get into a visitor center.
ESA doesn’t operate its own public space tourism flights. The agency works with private space tourism companies to provide expertise and support.
ESA teams up with commercial developers in astronaut training and space medicine. These partnerships help create thorough prep programs for space tourists.
Private companies set the actual requirements for participants. ESA shares technical knowledge and training expertise with these operators.
The agency focuses on building regulatory frameworks across Europe. This helps set up the legal environment needed for space tourism.
Schools can reach out to ESA’s Education Office to arrange visits. The agency welcomes educational groups at centers across Europe.
ESA runs several centers offering educational programs, including ESTEC in the Netherlands and other technical facilities.
Educational visits usually include guided tours and presentations about space missions. Students get to learn about ESA’s work in space science and technology.
Teachers should contact the specific ESA center they’re interested in. Each facility has its own process for group visits.
ESA visitor centers offer guided tours for the public. These centers highlight the agency’s space missions and achievements.
The main visitor center at ESTEC runs regular tours during the week. Visitors can check out spacecraft models and learn about ongoing missions.
Tours feature exhibits on past and current space projects. Guests explore interactive displays about space science and technology.
Public tours need to be booked in advance on ESA’s website. Group sizes are limited for a better experience.
ESA’s Education Office runs a range of programs for students at different levels. These include competitions, workshops, and hands-on activities.
The agency offers the European Space Camp for selected students. This program gives an intensive space science education and activities.
ESA also runs the European CanSat competition for student teams. Participants design and build small satellites to carry out specific missions.
Teacher training programs help educators bring space science into classrooms. ESA provides resources and materials for space-themed lessons.
ESA shares expertise in astronaut training and space medicine with private space tourism companies. The agency doesn’t directly train space tourists.
Commercial operators use ESA’s knowledge to build their own training programs. This covers safety procedures and medical preparation.
ESA’s experience with astronaut selection and training helps improve space tourist preparation. The agency shares best practices with private companies.
Training usually covers basic space physiology and safety steps. ESA’s medical expertise helps make sure tourists are ready for spaceflight.
You’ll need to book your tour ahead of time through ESA’s official website. Most ESA facilities won’t allow walk-ins, so don’t just show up expecting to get in.
ESA staff ask every visitor for identification because of security rules. Some areas inside the centers don’t allow photography, so keep an eye out for signs.
Major centers offer guided tours in several languages. These tours usually last anywhere from one to two hours.
You’ll find exhibits for all ages at the visitor centers. If you have mobility needs, you can ask for special arrangements.
