Theme : The applications of Space technology

CNES is both the French Space Agency and a centre for Space technology and as such has the wherewithal to carry out the complex state projects that it proposes to the nation and which are entrusted to its care. It has successful experience of integrating generic technologies and specifically those concerning Space. It is skilled both in launcher and Space technology in general and in exploiting Space applications.

Apart from its importance in proving national independence and the use of Space resources for extending scientific knowledge, Space plays a key role in both public services and commercial applications.

For the man in the street, Space activities principally involve :

• protecting the environment (climate change, natural disasters, etc.) and assisting in development;
• helping implement security and defence policies;
• contributing to research and development
• economic development (telecoms, satellite imagery, navigation, weather forecasting).