Analysis of CNES’ scientific production in aerospace research: 60 years of commitment with the future

CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales) acts, since its creation in 1961, as the French Space Agency and is a key leader in space research, and scientific and technical developments. Its involvement in a broad range of programs has positioned CNES as one of the most relevant national research agencies, leading efforts and initiatives in both European and international contexts. This article provides a review and analysis of the scientific and technical production of CNES, using as input the papers written by CNES staff referenced in the Scopus database. The period under study dates to 1964 and includes more than 10.000 documents. The study analyses measurable characteristics of CNES documents’ production: productivity, collaboration, and impact through citations. This paper provides a contribution aimed to gain a better understanding and characterisation of the scientific activity completed by Space agencies.