Satellite development begins for EUMETSAT Polar System – Sterna Craig MacDonald Wed, 18/03/2026 - 11:48
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Satellite development begins for EUMETSAT Polar System – Sterna
EUMETSAT takes a major step in its EPS-Sterna programme with the signature of a satellite production contract between OHB Sweden and ESA
EUMETSAT has taken a major step forward in developing its EUMETSAT Polar System – Sterna (EPS-Sterna) programme with the signature today of a satellite production contract between OHB Sweden and the European Space Agency.
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The EPS-Sterna programme will complement EUMETSAT’s existing fleet of geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites and strengthen space-based observations for weather forecasting and climate monitoring. It is fully funded by EUMETSAT’s 30 member states.
The innovative “New Space” constellation of 20 micro-satellites will improve microwave sounding coverage globally and help close important observation gaps in the Arctic. Microwave sounding instruments form the most important source of observation for numerical weather prediction. The first six satellites are expected to be launched in 2029. Over the course of the mission’s planned 13-year lifetime, EPS-Sterna data are projected to generate more than €30 billion in value for Europe, with a benefit–cost ratio of up to 51:1, helping national weather services improve forecasts and enabling decisions that protect lives, infrastructure and economic activity.
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