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French Space Agency
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French Space Agency

French government agency
Also known as: CNES
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Quick Summary

The French Space Agency, known as CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales), was established in 1961, making it Europe's largest national space organization at the time. It was created by the French government to advance space exploration and technology.1

CNES played a significant role in the development of European space efforts, including the European Space Agency (ESA). ESA was formed in 1975 from the merger of two earlier organizations, the European Space Research Organisation (ESRO) and the European Launcher Development Organisation (ELDO). France has been a leading member of ESA, particularly in the development of the reliable Ariane launch vehicles, which provide Europe with independent access to space and a strong position in the commercial launch industry.21

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. space exploration - Europe
  2. European Space Agency
  3. Canadian Space Agency

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