We analysed more than 68,000 peer-reviewed publications derived from data collected by 25 missions within the ESA Science Programme, along with 11 additional missions in which ESA has a supporting role. These publications span nearly five decades and cover the disciplines of astronomy, planetary science, and heliophysics, with data ranging from each mission’s launch year up to the end of 2021. Our study explored the temporal evolution of publication output and several bibliometric indicators, including citation counts and related indices. We also assessed the geographical distribution of contributing authors and, for ESA Member States, examined the correlation between scientific output and national financial contributions to the ESA Science Programme. Our findings suggest that scientific engagement across Member States generally aligns with their gross domestic products, although certain countries -- regardless of size -- demonstrate notable efficiency in translating mission data into scientific advancement. Additionally, we distinguished between publications authored by mission-affiliated scientists and those produced independently using mission data, known as "archival papers". Remarkably, archival papers account for over half of all ESA mission-based literature and show comparable citation impact to those authored by mission collaborators. This underscores the critical value of open access to and long-term preservation of scientific mission data.