Lights, Camera, Space! ESA Welcomes Filmmakers Worldwide
If you have ever been captivated by the awe-inspiring scenes of a space movie, chances are you were unknowingly immersed in the cinematic magic of the European Space Agency (ESA). In an exciting collaboration that blends the realms of science and art, ESA is teaming up with the film industry to bring space to the big screen.
Known as Europe’s space gateway, ESA is opening its doors to filmmakers from all over the world. The agency invites international film productions to harness the mesmerizing allure of its diverse and otherworldly locations. From rocket launchpads in French Guiana to sprawling antenna farms in Belgium, ESA has the perfect settings to make any film pop with uniqueness. Imagine shooting scenes in astronaut training facilities and simulators in Germany or capturing the futuristic vibes of ultra-modern mission control rooms. The possibilities are endless.
But these locations are more than just conventional film sets. They offer a plethora of unique backdrops that span eight European countries and two continents. Welcome to a cinematic universe where real-life space exploration becomes the backdrop for stories that transcend our planet and venture into the cosmos.
So how can filmmakers apply to shoot in these authentic ESA settings? It’s simple. Just fill out the request form on ESA’s website. But that’s not all. ESA goes the extra mile by offering technical consultancy, authentic props, stock footage, and 3D models to enhance production quality. It’s no wonder that ESA’s real-world space locations have already been featured in big Hollywood blockbusters, gripping TV dramas, and mesmerizing music videos.
One example is the film “Proxima,” which tells the compelling story of astronaut Sarah as she prepares for a year-long space mission. Some scenes were shot on location at ESA EAC, the European Astronaut Centre in Cologne. Director and writer Anna Winocour consulted with ESA researchers and astronauts to ensure scientific accuracy and authenticity in shaping the story. The film’s star, Eva Green, even had the privilege of meeting ESA astronauts Samantha Cristoforetti and Thomas Pesquet, adding an extra layer of authenticity to her performance.
Another thrilling space adventure film, “Wow! Message from Outer Space,” sought assistance from ESA to create realistic space and ground control scenes. The agency provided technical advice and authentic props, while some scenes were filmed on location at Europe’s spaceport in Kourou.
But ESA’s locations aren’t just limited to movies. They have also served as backdrops for music videos. Snow Patrol chose the Hertz Chamber and Large European Acoustic Facility at ESA ESTEC in the Netherlands for their video “Life on Earth.” Italian director Daniele Ciprì used the enigmatic interiors of ESA ESRIN near Rome for indie band Marcondiro’s music video “Amati.”
ESA’s modern and cutting-edge locations have even been connected to the world of fashion. Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana took center stage for a space-age fashion show paying homage to fashion designer Pierre Cardin.
Now, let’s explore the cosmic film sets of the European Space Agency across Europe. In Belgium, ESA ESEC European Space Security & Education Centre offers picturesque beauty with its vintage and modern equipment. In France, ESA Headquarters Novespace combines ultra-modern architecture with the iconic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. It even offers authentic zero gravity conditions at Novespace’s Airbus A310 Zero G. In Germany, ESA EAC European Astronaut Centre and European Space Operations Centre provide a hub for astronaut training and mission control. Italy’s ESA ESRIN ESA Centre for Earth Observation is a hub for Earth observation activities, while ESA ESTEC in the Netherlands is the technical heart of Europe’s space efforts. In Spain, ESA ESAC European Space Astronomy Centre & Cebreros OGS Optical Ground Station studies signals from celestial bodies. And in the UK, ESA ECSAT European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications focuses on developing commercial satcom products and services. Last but not least, Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana sets the stage for Ariane and Vega launches.
The European Space Agency has truly transformed the cosmos into a cinematic masterpiece. Its diverse locations provide the perfect backdrop for storytelling magic. Filmmakers from all over the world now have the opportunity to bring space to the big screen and captivate audiences with the wonders of the universe. Lights, camera, space!
