Speaker
Description
The MetOp-SG (Meteorological Operational Satellite - Second Generation) program comprises a series of meteorological satellites developed by ESA in collaboration with EUMETSAT and with the support of a European industrial consortium led by Airbus Defence and Space as the prime contractor. MetOp-SG is designed to provide crucial data for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and atmospheric research. These satellites are equipped with a range of advanced instruments that collect data related to atmospheric temperature, humidity, wind, cloud cover, and various other parameters, to better understand weather patterns, track severe weather events, and improve long-term climate predictions.
MetOp-SG satellites are constructed in two series: spacecraft A, carrying visible, infrared, and microwave imagers and sounders, and spacecraft B, carrying microwave imagers and a radar. Each series includes three identical satellites. MetOp-SG satellites will fly in a Sun-synchronous orbit at 831km altitude.
MetOp-SG satellite A benefits from the common platform developed for both series, with thermal control managed by cavities, including various subsystems and units. They feature a set of radiators, heaters and multi-layer insulation. The instruments have more complex thermal control to meet stringent low-temperature requirements. The two largest instruments are equipped with cryostats and actively cooled by cryocoolers, while the other instruments use passive cooling, requiring multi-stage radiators and various types of heat-pipes for two of them.
Following the launch, expected in mid-August 2025, this presentation focuses on the initial findings regarding the satellite's thermal performance, from the Launch and Early Operations Phase through the first weeks in orbit.
