The European Space Research Organisation, known as ESRO, emerged from a growing recognition in the early 1960s of the need for coordinated efforts in space research among European nations. As the United States and the Soviet Union were making significant strides in space exploration, countries in Europe sought a collaborative framework that could enable them to participate in the rapidly evolving field. The establishment of ESRO on March 20, 1964, signifies the formalization of these efforts, following an agreement signed in 1962. Headquartered in Paris, the organization was tasked with developing and launching scientific satellites to study the Earth and its atmosphere, other celestial bodies, and the universe at large.

The founding members of ESRO included Belgium, France, West Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, reflecting a commitment to pooling their scientific and technological resources. ESRO’s first satellite, the ESRO-1, was launched in 1965 and successfully demonstrated the capability of European collaboration in space research. Its focus extended beyond merely launching satellites; ESRO also aimed to develop a framework for joint research programs and stimulate the growth of the space industry within Europe.

As ESRO began to operate, it laid the groundwork for future space endeavors on the continent, which would eventually lead to the establishment of the European Space Agency (ESA) in 1975. The transition from ESRO to ESA represented an evolution towards a more robust and comprehensive European approach to space exploration, encompassing broader responsibilities, including human spaceflight and international collaboration. The formation of ESRO was a pivotal moment that initiated Europe’s journey into the space age and international scientific collaboration.