This post explains the upcoming launch of Metop-SGA1 and the role of its advanced imaging instrument, METimage, in a next-generation European polar satellite system.
I summarize the mission timeline, the international partnerships behind the instrument, and the concrete benefits for weather forecasting, climate monitoring and public safety.
Metop-SGA1: launch summary and mission context
The Metop-SGA1 satellite is scheduled to lift off from Kourou, French Guiana aboard an Ariane 6 rocket at 02:37 CEST on 13 August 2025.
This vehicle is the first A-series spacecraft of the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) Polar System – Second Generation (EPS-SG), designed to provide sustained, high-quality observations for weather and climate services.
Where METimage fits into EPS-SG
METimage is the cutting-edge multispectral camera on board Metop-SGA1.
It will deliver high-resolution images of clouds, atmospheric composition and trace gases, forming a key data input to numerical weather prediction, artificial intelligence-based forecasting and long-term climate records.
Instrumentation, development and partnerships
The METimage instrument was developed by Airbus Defence and Space in Germany under coordination by the German Space Agency (DLR), with funding provided by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Transport and EUMETSAT.
The operational and scientific requirements were informed by the German Weather Service (DWD), which contributed forecasting and climate-analysis expertise.
Technical and institutional collaboration
This collaboration reflects a proven European model: industry delivers the hardware, national agencies coordinate requirements and science, and EUMETSAT operates and distributes data.
METimage’s design emphasizes radiometric precision, multispectral bands and high spatial resolution to meet both operational forecasting and climate monitoring needs.
What METimage will deliver in practice
METimage will supply a continuous stream of calibrated observations that directly feed weather models and climate datasets.
By improving the representation of clouds, aerosols and trace gases in assimilated observations, the instrument will reduce forecast errors and enhance early-warning capabilities for extreme weather.
Key capabilities and expected impacts
Operational teams and researchers should expect a measurable uplift in model performance and a richer data foundation for policy decisions related to adaptation and risk management.
Constellation timeline and long-term availability
Metop-SGA1 initiates the A-series of EPS-SG satellites focused on atmospheric sounding and imaging.
It is complemented by three B-series satellites dedicated to microwave and radar observations.
The A-series also carries the Copernicus Sentinel-5 mission instrument for atmospheric composition monitoring, providing an integrated observational capability.
Continuity through the 2030s and beyond
Two additional METimage units are planned for launch in 2032 and 2039. This will ensure that the EPS-SG constellation delivers continuous, high-quality weather and climate data into the late 2040s.
With Metop-SGA1 and METimage, Europe enhances its operational meteorological infrastructure. This secures a robust stream of data for decades.
For practitioners in weather services and climate science, the upcoming launch represents an operational upgrade. It is also an opportunity to drive innovation in model assimilation and AI-assisted forecasting.
Here is the source article for this story: Metop-SG satellites to boost extreme weather nowcasting and climate monitoring