INTA (National Institute for Aerospace Technology) is the Spanish Public Research Organization specialized in aerospace research and technology development. Its main responsibilities are the acquisition, maintenance and continuous improvement of all those technologies that can be applied to the aerospace field; to perform all types of tests to check, approve and certify materials, components equipment items, subsystems and systems that have an aerospace application; to

provide technical assessment and services to official bodies and agencies, and also to industrial or technological companies; and to act as a technological center for the Ministry of Defence. Since its creation in 1942 by Esteban Terradas, INTA has developed an intense activity, first in the aeronautical field, and later in the ambit of space. During these years, the effort of generations of INTA scientists and technicians has formed the backbone of Spanish aerospace activities and has

contributed to the strengthening of the industrial fabric of Spain. INTA is organized in several departments: Aerodynamics and Propulsion; Space Sciences and Electronic Technologies; Materials and Structures; Earth Observation, remote sensing and atmosphere; Aeronautical Programmes; and Space Programmes. Most of the astrobiology basic research is conducted at the Center of Astrobiology (CAB) , a joint institute with the Spanish High Research Council (CSIC). CAB is located in two sites. One of them in the European Space Astronomy Center, and one of the CAB missions is to act as a liasson between the European Space Agency and the Spanish astronomical community.