We are proud of our Noordwijk by the sea: the beach, the fresh air, and the flowers. But did you know that Noordwijk is also the space hub of the Netherlands? It is home to the technical heart of the European Space Agency (ESA). At ESA-ESTEC’s test centre, new missions are constantly being designed and tested. Many innovative applications that we use in everyday life today originate from space technology—developed right here in Noordwijk.
This may well be Noordwijk’s best-kept secret, since ESA-ESTEC is usually not open to the public. That makes it all the more exciting that on 7 October a fascinating and free Space Tour will be organized, giving you the chance to learn more about space activities in Noordwijk.
The tour starts with a guided walk by Robert Willemsen to the Walk of Space on the Koningin Wilhelminaboulevard, where since 2013 no fewer than 18 astronauts have left their hand- or footprints. A bus will then take you to the ESA-ESTEC complex for an exclusive look behind the scenes at Europe’s centre for human spaceflight and robotics for the Moon and Mars.
You will also see a full-scale model of ExoMars, ESA’s rover that will search for life on Mars, learn more about materials and component research, and discover how 3D printing is being used for space.The Noordwijk Space Tour is an initiative of Noordwijk Marketing, the Municipality of Noordwijk, and SPACETOURS Noordwijk.Don’t miss this unique opportunity—spaces are limited, so sign up quickly for one of the Space Tours in Noordwijk! https://www.noordwijk.info/nl/highlights/space/aanmelden-walk-of-space
Practical Information – Free Noordwijk Space Tour
- Start and end point: VVV Noordwijk, Hoofdstraat 129
- Date & time: Tuesday, 7 October, 13:30–16:30
- Duration: 3 hours
- Maximum participants: 25 per tour
- Important: To access ESA-ESTEC, valid ID is required (passport, ID card, or driver’s license).
Times and program are subject to change.
