 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
Meteosat
A series of European geostationary weather satellites developed in conjunction with GARP (Global Atmospheric Research Program). Although ESA (European Space Agency) originated and continues to control the Meteosat network, Eumetsat (European Organization for Meteorological Satellites), created in 1981-86, has overall responsibility for the system. The main goal of the Meteosats is supply 24-hour, visible and infrared cloud cover and radiance data. Three pre-operational craft were launched in 1977-88 before the Meteosat Operational Program (MOP) began with the launch of Meteosat 4. Meteosat satellites closely resemble their American and Japanese counterparts. Each measures about 3 × 2.1 m and has an on-orbit dry mass of 320 kg.
| Spacecraft | Launch date | Launch vehicle | Launch site | GSO location |
| Meteosat 1 | Nov. 23, 1977 | Delta 2914 | Cape Canaveral | 0° E |
| Meteosat 2 | Jun. 19, 1981 | Ariane 1 | Kourou | 0° E |
| Meteosat 3 | Jun. 15, 1988 | Ariane 44LP | Kourou | 0° E |
| Meteosat 4 | Mar. 6, 1989 | Ariane 44LP | Kourou | 0° E |
| Meteosat 5 | Jun. 15, 1988 | Ariane 44LP | Kourou | 4° E |
| Meteosat 6 | Nov. 15, 1993 | Ariane 44LP | Kourou | 0° E |
| Meteosat 7 | Sep. 2, 1997 | Ariane 44LP | Kourou | 10° W |
Related category
• SATELLITES AND SPACE PROBES
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)