Europe launches next-generation weather satellite to secure two decades of climate data

The MetOp-SG-A1 satellite has launched on an Ariane 6 rocket, marking the start of a new era for European weather forecasting and climate monitoring. This mission provides enhanced resolution and critical atmospheric data, ensuring Europe maintains independent access to space for essential environmental observation.

The MetOp-SG-A1 satellite, which launched on 13 August 2024 from French Guiana, is the first of three planned pairs of satellites. By operating from a polar orbit, this mission is designed to provide continuous global weather and climate data for over 20 years. It offers significant improvements in measurement accuracy and resolution compared to its predecessors.

Beyond weather forecasting, the satellite hosts the Copernicus Sentinel-5 mission, tasked with tracking air pollutants, atmospheric trace gases, aerosols, and ultraviolet radiation on a daily basis. The flight, designated VA264, utilized the Ariane 6 heavy launcher in its two-booster configuration, highlighting Europe's commitment to autonomous space access.

Source: From cleanroom to space - MetOp-SG-A1 and Sentinel-5