Airbus-built MetOp-SG weather and climate satellite shipped to Kourou

The MetOp Second Generation-A1 satellite, built for EUMETSAT (European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites), is expected to launch in August 2025 on board an Ariane 6 rocket.

The MetOp-SG programme consists of six satellites: three successive pairs made up of an A-type and a B-type satellite, which carry a host of different but complementary instruments. MetOp-SG A satellites have instruments for atmospheric sounding and imaging, and MetOp-SG B include instruments for microwave imaging and radar observations. They will ensure the continuity of critical MetOp series data into the mid-2040s.

“The MetOp Second Generation satellites will further enhance Europe’s leading position in meteorological analysis from space, and help deliver even more accurate weather forecasting to benefit everyone on Earth. Having designed and manufactured all three of the first generation MetOp satellites we are truly looking forward to the successful launch of the first in this vital series that will watch over our planet,” said Marc Steckling, Head of Earth Observation, Science and Space Exploration at Airbus Defence and Space.