📜 Europe's main technology development and test centre for spacecraft and space technology, and the largest ESA center in Europe. 🔍 Located on the Dutch coast in Noordwijk, founded in 1968, it's a hub for designing, building, and testing spacecraft and space technology. # Why Go 🚀 See where Europe's space missions are developed and tested 🔬 Explore extensive test facilities for spacecraft 🌌 Visit Space Expo, the visitor center next door 🛰️ Opportunity for a "Space Train" tour to ESTEC # Why Avoid 🚫 ESTEC itself is generally off-limits, only open one day a year # Tips 🗓️ Plan your visit for the annual free open day in October. 🎟️ Space Expo offers year-round access and tours to ESTEC via "Space Train". 🚂 Take the "Space Train" from Space Expo for tours (age 9+ required). # Cost 💰 ESTEC open day is free. Space Expo tickets: Adults €18.50, 4-12 years €16.50, Space Train €10.75. # Hours 🕒 ESTEC: Annually one day in October. Space Expo: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00, with some Monday openings during school holidays. # 🅿️ Parking Available at Space Expo.