Since its inception in 1961, the French Space Agency (CNES) is a pivotal player in the European and international space arena.

To execute the nation’s space policy, CNES relies on strong shared values like excellence, enthusiasm and the desire to rise to the challenges that lie ahead. 2,358 men and women are working hard to lay plans for the future, make French industry more competitive and sustain scientific and operational excellence.

Four centres of excellence:

  • Head Office in Paris: space policy
  • Launch Vehicles Directorate (DLA) in Paris: launch systems
  • Toulouse Space Centre (CST): orbital systems and operations
  • Guiana Space Centre (CSG): launch operations.

CNES representatives in Brussels, Berlin, Washington D.C., Moscow, Tokyo, Bangalore, Abu Dhabi and Beijing are constantly seeking to consolidate cooperation with the agency’s longstanding partners.

© NASA/JPL Caltech, 2017
© NASA/JPL Caltech, 2017
© CNES/GRIMAULT Emmanuel, 2017
© CNES/GRIMAULT Emmanuel, 2017
© ESA/ill./DUCROS David, 2018
© ESA/ill./DUCROS David, 2018