Europe’s new weather satellite MetOp-SG A1 was successfully launched into orbit, carrying on board a radiometric receiver designed and manufactured by DA-Group. The device enables the satellite to deliver more precise data for weather forecasting and climate change monitoring, continuing DA-Group’s long track record in international space projects.
Europe’s new polar-orbiting weather satellite MetOp-SG A1 successfully reached orbit on Wednesday, August 13 at 03:37 (EEST) aboard an Ariane 6 launch vehicle from French Guiana. With the launch, DA-Group’s advanced technology also began its journey in space: onboard the satellite is a 89 GHz radiometric receiver, designed and manufactured by DA-Group, which will measure Earth’s temperature and humidity from space and support improvements in global weather forecasting and climate change monitoring.
The receiver is part of the satellite’s MWS (MicroWave Sounder) instrument, which takes atmospheric observation to a new level. DA-Group was specifically responsible for the design and manufacturing of the channel 17 receiver of the MWS instrument. This microwave sounder instrument measures the Earth’s radiation at a frequency of 89 GHz in conjuction with the other channels and provides valuable data on temperature and humidity profiles around the Earth.
MetOp-SG A1 is part of the European weather satellite programme EPS-SG (EUMETSAT Polar System – Second Generation), which continues the legacy of the MetOp satellites in providing critical data for atmospheric and climate observation. EPS-SG consists of two satellite series (MetOp-SGA and SGB) operating alternately in orbit. MetOp-SG A1 introduces next-generation observation capabilities to support forecasting, marine services, and climate monitoring.
DA-Group’s technology is once again heading into space with the launch of the MetOp-SG A1 satellite. The company has participated in numerous previous international satellite projects, including ESA’s Sentinel-1 series as part of the Copernicus programme.
“DA-Group’s strength lies in developing reliable systems for extreme environments. We are proud that our expertise supports global climate and weather monitoring and adds value to international space programmes,” says Chief Business Officer Timo Lättilä.
The receiver’s environmental testing and characterisation were carried out by VTT MilliLab, ensuring the system’s reliability under demanding space conditions.
“This is a great example of how Finnish research and technology come together in international space collaboration,” says Project Manager Mikko Kärkkäinen.
The satellite was built by Airbus Defence and Space in cooperation with the European Space Agency (ESA), and it will be operated by EUMETSAT throughout its lifecycle. The launch was executed by Arianespace and is available to watch online.
DA-Group’s expertise in advanced radio frequency solutions has played a decisive role in the development of the device. The project continues the company’s long-standing work in space and satellite technology, showcasing Finnish engineering excellence prominently in international programmes.
More information:
- What is EPS and MetOp? (EUMETSAT)
- What is MetOp-SG? (EUMETSAT)
- Meet the satellite: MetOp-SG A1 – Presentation of the MWS instrument and its location on the satellite
- More information on the launch: ArianeGroup – VA264
Contact:
Timo Lättilä, Chief Business Officer, timo.lattila@da-group.fi, +358 29 080 0926, www.da-group.fi