Satellites must be able to withstand the violent forces of lift-off and survive in the harsh space environment. To make sure they can function reliably when in orbit, every satellite and its components undergo extensive testing before being sent to space.

The European Space Agency’s Test Centre at ESTEC in the Netherlands is the largest satellite testing site in Europe, equipped with facilities to simulate every aspect of spaceflight.

Do you want to take a virtual peek inside the walls where few people ever get to venture? Take our fully immersive virtual tour.

Produced for ESA by ATG Europe, this 3D-model-based tour provides an incredibly accurate representation of the ESTEC Test Centre, with facility details brought to life in high-quality models and renders augmented with extremely high-resolution 360° photos.

The tour was recently updated and now offers enhanced mobile compatibility, easier navigation, and includes additional infrastructural elements.

Begin your tour here.

Operated for ESA by European Test Services, the ESTEC Test Centre has validated the flight-readiness of countless missions, most recently including EarthCARE, Plato, and Smile.