The extent of routine operations activity depends on the type of mission. In nearly all missions, ESOC is responsible for monitoring and control of the spacecraft and ensuring that quality products and services are delivered to the end users. The end of the spacecraft's mission finally occurs when ground contact is permanently terminated. A core team of station operations engineers working closely with the on-site station staff ensures the efficient operation of the ESA network. In rare cases, an unexpected event turns out to have a major impact on the ability to continue a mission as originally foreseen and it becomes necessary to embark upon a major recovery effort.
Time is of the essence.
Extensive rescue training and preparation, combined with our worldwide network access have enabled ESOC to successfully meet such challenges in the past, on behalf of our own missions and those of our international partners.