CNES

CNES, the Centre national d'études spatiales (National Center for Space Studies), is France's national space agency. It is responsible for proposing and implementing France's space policy, coordinating national space activities, and representing France in international space affairs. CNES was established in 1961 at the initiative of Charles de Gaulle to organize and promote French space research and technology.

The agency operates under the authority of the French government, through the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. It is led by a Director General and governed by a council that sets strategic priorities. CNES coordinates with European partners through the European Space Agency and with commercial and international entities.

CNES conducts programs in Earth observation, telecommunications, navigation, science, and launcher development. It operates or supports national satellites such as Earth-observing missions, and collaborates on European satellite programs like the SPOT and Pleiades series. It also contributes to launcher technology and services, notably the Ariane launcher family, in partnership with Arianespace, for both national and commercial launches.

In addition to program delivery, CNES funds research and development in space technologies, supports French industry, and fosters international collaboration with space agencies and organizations worldwide. The agency plays a central role in shaping France's role within Europe’s space strategy and in advancing exploration and satellite-based services.