The upcoming launch of MetOp-SG A1, a new European weather satellite, marks a major step forward in how we monitor our planet. MetOp-SG is a testament to true European unity and collaboration bringing together space agencies, scientists, and industries from across Europe to build one of the most advanced weather satellites ever created. Packed with cutting-edge instruments developed by companies across Europe, MetOp-SG A1 will help meteorologists deliver more accurate weather forecasts, improve air quality monitoring, and support long-term climate research.
What is MetOp-SG?
MetOp-SG stands for Meteorological Operational Satellite Second Generation. It’s part of a dual-satellite system developed by EUMETSAT and ESA, with the
MetOp-SG A satellites focused on optical and infrared imaging,
MetOp-SG B satellites (launching later in 2026) focused on microwave imaging.
Together, they provide an all-weather, all-day, global view of Earth’s atmosphere, land, and oceans.
What Instruments Are on MetOp-SG-A1?
IASI-NG Atmospheric Sounding
Developed by CNES (France) in collaboration with Airbus Defence and Space (Toulouse), this infrared sounder measures temperature, humidity, and trace gases like ozone and methane. It’s essential for 10-day forecasts and air quality monitoring.
Microwave Sounder (MWS)
Built by Airbus Defence and Space (Portsmouth, UK), MWS uses microwave frequencies to provide temperature and humidity profiles in the atmosphere. It works day or night, through clouds, and is key for storm tracking and water cycle studies.
METimage Cloud & Surface Imaging
Developed by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) with Airbus Defence and Space (Friedrichshafen), METimage captures high-resolution images of clouds, land, and ocean surfaces across 20 spectral channels.
Radio Occultation (RO)
Designed by Beyond Gravity (formerly RUAG Space) in Sweden, RO uses satellite signals (GPS, Galileo and Beidou) to measure how Earth’s atmosphere bends them, revealing temperature, humidity, and even space weather conditions.
3MI Multiviewing Multichannel Multipolarisation Imager
Led by Leonardo (Italy) and over 10 subcontractors across Europe, 3MI is a unique optical instrument that views the same area from 14 different angles, in 12 channels and 3 polarizations to study aerosols like dust, smoke, and pollution. This helps improve both climate models and weather forecasts.
Sentinel-5 UVNS
Developed by Airbus Defence and Space (with support from many European industries), this powerful spectrometer monitors air quality and trace gases like nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and ozone. It supports the EU’s Copernicus Atmospheric Monitoring Service.
Airbus Defence and Space Toulouse: The Pillar of Metop-SG
Airbus Defence and Space in Toulouse, France, plays a central role in the development and integration of some of Europe’s most advanced satellite technologies. As a long-standing partner in European space missions, Airbus Defence and Space (Toulouse) is the prime contractor for the MetOp-SG A satellite, overseeing the assembly, integration, and testing of the full satellite platform and all the instruments on MetOp-SG A.
Why It Matters
MetOp-SG A1 will deliver:
: More accurate and longer-range weather forecasts
: Better tracking of global air quality and pollution
: Long-term climate data for scientific research and policymaking
From helping forecast extreme weather to monitoring pollution in urban areas, this satellite is designed to serve people and protect our planet.
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