The radar eyes watching Earth through clouds and darkness

Sentinel-1A liftoff · 4:33 · Video: European Space Agency, ESA · Watch at the source

In short: Watch the 2014 liftoff of Sentinel-1A, the first satellite in a fleet designed to map our planet regardless of weather or light conditions. This launch marked a major milestone for Europe's Copernicus programme.

Launched from the European Spaceport in French Guiana on April 3, 2014, Sentinel-1A utilizes advanced radar technology to provide a continuous stream of imagery. Unlike traditional optical sensors, this radar allows for all-weather, day-and-night observation of the Earth's surface.

The mission serves critical global needs, from monitoring Arctic sea-ice and marine environments to identifying land surface motion risks. The data also provides essential mapping for humanitarian aid and crisis response, forming a cornerstone of the Copernicus programme's data wealth.

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