2026Q3 - MTG-I2 - Ariane 64 - Kourou ELA-4
Meteosat Third Generation-I2Launch: Jul 2026 - Sep 2026
Our teams have reached a significant milestone in the development of MTG-I2, the second imager satellite in the Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) program, designed to improve weather forecasting in Europe and Africa.The lightning imager was successfully assembled with the satellite platform and the Flexible Combined Imager in our clean rooms in Cannes, southern France. The satellite then successfully passed thermal vacuum testing, a crucial step in ensuring that it will withstand the extreme temperature variations encountered in orbit.These achievements were accomplished within a month thanks to close cooperation between our teams and those of Leonardo who supplied the Lightning imager, as well as the strong commitment of our teams, who accurately and precisely anticipated the ongoing activities.The Meteosat Third Generation program, developed by Thales Alenia Space as prime contractor for European Space Agency - ESA and EUMETSAT, is based on a constellation of six satellites: four imaging satellites (MTG-I) and two atmospheric sounding satellites (MTG-S). The first two satellites in the series, MTG-I1 and MTG-S1, were launched in December 2022 and July 2025 respectively. Once completed, the constellation will ensure the continuity of European weather monitoring beyond 2040.Following the success of the latest cleanroom operations, our teams will integrate the solar generators into the MTG-I2 satellite and perform a final series of tests ahead of the launch planned in 2026.
What's next for MTG-I2?The next step for MTG-I2 is the completion of the mechanical integration of the solar arrays as well as the Data Collection Service (DCS) and the Geostationary Search and Rescue (GEOSAR) instrument receivers and the Ka-band antenna, at which point the satellite will be in its launch configuration – and ready for more testing.Vibration testing will simulate the launch environment and aims to confirm the build quality of the overall satellite demonstrating that it will survive the extreme loads it will endure during the launch phase.There will be a final series of tests, including a System Validation Test with the ground segment operator Eumetsat in the loop, before the satellite is readied for launch, planned in 2026.
Developed at the DLR Institute of Space Systems in Bremen, PLUTO a 6U CubeSat technology demonstrator features breakthrough innovations: a 100W deployable solar array (1U stowed) and an Integrated Core Avionics system that brings large spacecraft capabilities to the CubeSat form factor.The mission validates critical technologies including software-defined radio, GaN power electronics and distributed computing. Our Unified Module Framework ensures seamless scalability from CubeSats to commercial satellites. PLUTO launches mid-2026 on Isar Aerospace's Spectrum rocket, followed by an advanced version PLUTO+ in 2027 on Vega Launcher.
Quote from: Salo on 07/28/2025 08:36 pm2026Q3 - MTG-I2 - Ariane 64 - Kourou ELA-4Eumetsat Planned LaunchesQuoteMeteosat Third Generation-I2Launch: Jul 2026 - Sep 2026...
2029TBD - ARIEL, Comet Interceptor (fast mission) - Ariane 62 - Kourou ELA-4
Launched:№ – Date - Satellite(s) - Rocket - Launch Site - Time (UTC)2028April - Ramses, cubesat (x2) - TBD - Kourou
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has requested funding to participate in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety (Ramses).Ramses is ESA’s proposed mission to rendezvous with the 375 m asteroid Apophis and accompany it through a safe but exceptionally close flyby of Earth in 2029.
The JAXA contributions to Ramses would include the provision of the spacecraft’s solar arrays and infrared imager, as well as a rideshare launch on a Japanese H3 launch vehicle.
2028TBD - RISE - Ariane 6 - Kourou ELA-4
ESA has now taken another important step on the road towards sustainability in space with its first in-orbit servicing mission RISE, planned for launch in 2029.
Launched:№ – Date - Satellite(s) - Rocket - Launch Site - Time (UTC)2026Q4 - PLATO - Ariane 62 - Kourou ELA-4
Plato is scheduled to launch on an Ariane 6 rocket in December 2026 on its quest to search for Earth-like planets orbiting stars similar to our Sun.
IRIDE constellation are ready to reach the launch site [Sep 12]QuoteThe first eight Eaglet II satellites of the #IRIDE constellation are ready to reach the launch site.Destination: SpaceX, California (USA).OHB Italia S.p.A. is proud to contribute to this ambitious and strategic EO project, developed through the Italian Government, under the coordination of European Space Agency – ESA (European Space Agency) and with the involvement of Agenzia Spaziale Italiana – ASI.Not confirmed yet for T-15 but IRIDE satellites launched on T-12 and T-14.
The first eight Eaglet II satellites of the #IRIDE constellation are ready to reach the launch site.Destination: SpaceX, California (USA).OHB Italia S.p.A. is proud to contribute to this ambitious and strategic EO project, developed through the Italian Government, under the coordination of European Space Agency – ESA (European Space Agency) and with the involvement of Agenzia Spaziale Italiana – ASI.
Avio and SpaceLaunch have signed a Launch Services Agreement to place an institutional Earth observation satellite into orbit aboard Vega C in 2027.The extra-European institutional customer, whose identity will be disclosed later this year, awarded the mission following an open international competition. Vega C was selected for its versatility and cost-effectiveness. The satellite, with a launch mass of approximately 700 kilograms, will be deployed into a Sun-synchronous orbit.[...]The launch is scheduled for the second half of 2027.
Arianespace to launch German defense satellites SATCOMBw Stufe 3 with Ariane 6 Arianespace signs contract with Airbus Defence and Space for the launch of two SATCOMBw Stufe 3 satellites. The satellites will be launched onboard two Ariane 6 launchers, whose prime contractor is the Franco-German company ArianeGroup. SATCOMBw Stufe 3 is the next generation secure military satellite system of Germany. With these launches, Arianespace supports a critical defense mission and guarantees both Germany's and Europe's autonomous access to space.Arianespace announces it has been awarded the contract to launch two SATCOMBw Stufe 3 satellites with two Ariane 6 for the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr).The satellites will board Europe's heavy-lift launchers Ariane 6, for a launch from Europe's Spaceport, in French Guiana. The European Ariane 6 launcher family is built by the prime contractor ArianeGroup, a Franco-German company.SATCOMBw Stufe 3 is Germany's next generation of secure military satellite system. For the Bundeswehr, Airbus is the prime contractor for the design, integration, test and in orbit delivery of two new military GEO telecommunications satellites which are the successor communications satellites to COMSATBw 1 and 2. It also includes upgrading of the existing ground segment to operate the new satellites as well as operational services for 15 years, with the possibility of extension.David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace, commented: “By signing this new strategic contract for the German Armed Forces, Arianespace accomplishes its core mission of guaranteeing an autonomous access to space for European sovereign satellites. More than ever, providing secure space defense systems is key and we are proud to do so with Europe's heavy rocket Ariane 6 which has now fully demonstrated its reliability, precision and performance.”
https://newsroom.arianespace.com/arianespace-to-launch-german-defense-satellites-satcombw-stufe-3-with-ariane-6?lang=engQuoteArianespace to launch German defense satellites SATCOMBw Stufe 3 with Ariane 6 Arianespace signs contract with Airbus Defence and Space for the launch of two SATCOMBw Stufe 3 satellites. The satellites will be launched onboard two Ariane 6 launchers, whose prime contractor is the Franco-German company ArianeGroup. SATCOMBw Stufe 3 is the next generation secure military satellite system of Germany. With these launches, Arianespace supports a critical defense mission and guarantees both Germany's and Europe's autonomous access to space.Arianespace announces it has been awarded the contract to launch two SATCOMBw Stufe 3 satellites with two Ariane 6 for the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr).The satellites will board Europe's heavy-lift launchers Ariane 6, for a launch from Europe's Spaceport, in French Guiana. The European Ariane 6 launcher family is built by the prime contractor ArianeGroup, a Franco-German company.SATCOMBw Stufe 3 is Germany's next generation of secure military satellite system. For the Bundeswehr, Airbus is the prime contractor for the design, integration, test and in orbit delivery of two new military GEO telecommunications satellites which are the successor communications satellites to COMSATBw 1 and 2. It also includes upgrading of the existing ground segment to operate the new satellites as well as operational services for 15 years, with the possibility of extension.David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace, commented: “By signing this new strategic contract for the German Armed Forces, Arianespace accomplishes its core mission of guaranteeing an autonomous access to space for European sovereign satellites. More than ever, providing secure space defense systems is key and we are proud to do so with Europe's heavy rocket Ariane 6 which has now fully demonstrated its reliability, precision and performance.”SATCOMBw phase 3 was expected to be operational by 2029 in 2022: https://esut.de/2022/05/meldungen/34154/betrieb-von-satcombw-wird-verlaengert/
Launched:№ – Date - Satellite(s) - Rocket - Launch Site - Time (UTC)Unclear:2032-2033 - Cairt [Earth Explorer 11 candidate] - TBD - Kourou2032-2033 - Wivern [Earth Explorer 11 candidate] - TBD - Kourou
After meticulous preparation and rigorous evaluation, ESA’s Member States have selected WIVERN to become the 11th Earth Explorer mission to be implemented through the agency’s prestigious FutureEO programme.The journey began in 2020, when ESA launched a Call for Ideas for bold new missions that could push the boundaries of Earth science and satellite technology. From 15 proposals, four were subsequently shortlisted for detailed study. In 2023, that shortlist was narrowed further to two contenders: WIVERN and CAIRT.Following the release of a detailed report for each mission (linked below) and during an in-depth User Consultation Meeting in July, both mission concepts were scrutinised by the scientific community and ESA’s Advisory Committee for Earth Observation (ACEO). Based on their evaluation, ACEO recommended that WIVERN be selected for implementation as Earth Explorer 11.
France Grants Avio 10-Year Licence to Launch from Guiana Space Centre [Aug. 21]Quote Looking ahead, the company will shift operations to ELA-3 for its upgraded Vega E rocket. The complex previously hosted Ariane 5 launches before that vehicle’s retirement in July 2023. The inaugural flight of Vega E is currently expected to take place between late 2027 and early 2028.
Looking ahead, the company will shift operations to ELA-3 for its upgraded Vega E rocket. The complex previously hosted Ariane 5 launches before that vehicle’s retirement in July 2023. The inaugural flight of Vega E is currently expected to take place between late 2027 and early 2028.
Quote from: jacqmans on 10/06/2025 08:47 amhttps://twitter.com/Arianespace/status/1975117446718624215https://newsroom.arianespace.com/arianespace-to-launch-eus-copernicus-sentinel-1d-satellite-on-november-4-2025-with-ariane-6?lang=engQuoteArianespace to launch EU's Copernicus Sentinel-1D satellite on November 4, 2025, with Ariane 6 * On November 4, 2025, with Ariane 6, Arianespace will place into orbit Sentinel-1D, a Copernicus satellite for the European Commission within the scope of a contract signed with the European Space Agency (ESA). * The Sentinel-1D satellite is designed to carry an advanced radar instrument to provide an all-weather day-and-night supply of imagery of Earth's surface. * The VA265 mission will be the third commercial flight for Ariane 6, Europe's new heavy-lift launcher. * With this launch, Arianespace supports a major environmental mission while also carrying out its commitment of guaranteeing Europe's autonomous access to space.On November 4, 2025 at 6:03 p.m. local time (9:03 p.m. UTC, 10:03 p.m. CET), Arianespace will launch the Sentinel-1D satellite with Ariane 6 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana.The mission, designated VA265, will be the third commercial flight for Ariane 6, the new European heavy-lift launcher. The satellite will be placed into Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) at an altitude of approximately 693 km. Spacecraft separation will occur around 34 minutes after lift-off.The Sentinel-1D satellite is part of Copernicus, the Earth observation component of the European Union's Space Programme. Copernicus is managed and funded by the European Union with a partial contribution of ESA. As the world's most advanced Earth observation system, Copernicus provides continuous, free, and reliable Earth observation data and services to public authorities, companies and citizens around the globe. Sentinel-1D will carry advanced radar technology to provide an all-weather, day-and-night supply of imagery of the Earth's surface, delivering data essential to monitoring sea ice, track icebergs and glaciers, subsidence, and oil spills.Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67 %) and Leonardo (33 %), is the prime contractor of Sentinel-1D which arrived in French Guiana on September 11th, 2025.The VA265 mission once again highlights Arianespace's commitment to space for a better life on Earth, as well as ensuring Europe's autonomous access to space.The VA265 launch at a glance: * 356th launch by Arianespace * 4th Ariane 6 launch and 3rd commercial flight * 10% of the satellites launched by Arianespace are Earth observation satellites * 7th Sentinel satellite launched by Arianespace * 53rd mission for the European Space Agency * 109th spacecraft built by Thales Alenia Space launched by ArianespaceFor any request to receive the clean feed of the launch broadcast, please contact: Camille SOHIER - [email protected]
https://twitter.com/Arianespace/status/1975117446718624215
Arianespace to launch EU's Copernicus Sentinel-1D satellite on November 4, 2025, with Ariane 6 * On November 4, 2025, with Ariane 6, Arianespace will place into orbit Sentinel-1D, a Copernicus satellite for the European Commission within the scope of a contract signed with the European Space Agency (ESA). * The Sentinel-1D satellite is designed to carry an advanced radar instrument to provide an all-weather day-and-night supply of imagery of Earth's surface. * The VA265 mission will be the third commercial flight for Ariane 6, Europe's new heavy-lift launcher. * With this launch, Arianespace supports a major environmental mission while also carrying out its commitment of guaranteeing Europe's autonomous access to space.On November 4, 2025 at 6:03 p.m. local time (9:03 p.m. UTC, 10:03 p.m. CET), Arianespace will launch the Sentinel-1D satellite with Ariane 6 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana.The mission, designated VA265, will be the third commercial flight for Ariane 6, the new European heavy-lift launcher. The satellite will be placed into Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) at an altitude of approximately 693 km. Spacecraft separation will occur around 34 minutes after lift-off.The Sentinel-1D satellite is part of Copernicus, the Earth observation component of the European Union's Space Programme. Copernicus is managed and funded by the European Union with a partial contribution of ESA. As the world's most advanced Earth observation system, Copernicus provides continuous, free, and reliable Earth observation data and services to public authorities, companies and citizens around the globe. Sentinel-1D will carry advanced radar technology to provide an all-weather, day-and-night supply of imagery of the Earth's surface, delivering data essential to monitoring sea ice, track icebergs and glaciers, subsidence, and oil spills.Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67 %) and Leonardo (33 %), is the prime contractor of Sentinel-1D which arrived in French Guiana on September 11th, 2025.The VA265 mission once again highlights Arianespace's commitment to space for a better life on Earth, as well as ensuring Europe's autonomous access to space.The VA265 launch at a glance: * 356th launch by Arianespace * 4th Ariane 6 launch and 3rd commercial flight * 10% of the satellites launched by Arianespace are Earth observation satellites * 7th Sentinel satellite launched by Arianespace * 53rd mission for the European Space Agency * 109th spacecraft built by Thales Alenia Space launched by ArianespaceFor any request to receive the clean feed of the launch broadcast, please contact: Camille SOHIER - [email protected]
Planned launches:NET Q3 - LUXEOSys (NAOS) - Falcon-9 - Vandenberg SLC-4E
NET H2 November - Transporter-15: IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-1, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-2, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-3, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-4, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-5, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-6, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-7, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-8, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-9, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-10, IRIDE-MS1-EAGLET2-12, IRIDE-MS2-HEO-7, IRIDE-MS2-HEO-10 - Falcon 9 - Vandenberg SLC-4ENET October - Transporter 15: HydroGNSS-1 (Earth Scout 2A), HydroGNSS-2 (Earth Scout 2B) - Falcon 9 - Vandenberg SLC-4E
2026Late - CSG-4 - Vega C - Kourou ELV
ASI confirmed its trust in Arianespace and VEGA-C capabilities by contracting the launch of the CSG-3 satellite, planned for 2024. Moreover, other future launch opportunities for ASI missions with VEGA-C are under discussion, confirming Arianespace as a key partner for the Agency.
TBD - Optus-11 - Ariane 64 - Kourou ELA-4
Sky had planned to move straight from D2 a new satellite, satellite Optus 11, but Optus has delayed its launch until at least 2027
TBD - LEO-PNT demonstrator, HydroGNSS-1 (Earth Scout 2A), HydroGNSS-2 (Earth Scout 2B) - Vega C (VV??/VC??) - Kourou ELV (or Q4 2025)
2027TBD - EL3 - Ariane 64 - Kourou ELA-4EL3 - European Large Logistic Lander2031TBD - Argonaut - Ariane 64 Block 3 (TBD) - Kourou ELA-4
2037TBD - New ATHENA - Ariane 6 - Kourou ELA-4
Planned launch: 2037 on an Ariane 6.4
Under the project name IHE1-5 CubeSat, NanoAvionics will build a 12-16U IOD/IOV spacecraft. In particular, the company will be responsible for the design, assembly, integration, testing, ground segment, and operations of the satellite. The spacecraft will house various payloads from European entities to be demonstrated and validated in orbit.ESA has already pre-selected eight potential payloads from over 50 potential candidates for this mission. The final selection of the IOD/IOV experiments will be completed after the system definition review during the coming months.[...]While the launch date and launch provider have not been announced yet, the satellite is confirmed to be sent into orbit through the European Flight Ticket Initiative, using exclusively European-manufactured launch vehicles.
🚀 Creotech Instruments is expanding its contract with European Space Agency - ESA under the #CAMILA project!➡️ The amendment activates two additional options included in the original agreement and increases the contract value by approx. €7.1 million, bringing the total to over €59 million.As part of this extension: we will deliver, launch, and operate in orbit a fourth observation satellite based on the #HyperSat Eagle 2.0 platform, a ~100 kg spacecraft
Henon is expected to piggyback on the launch of a larger spacecraft planned for late 2026. The launcher will take the CubeSat to the Sun-Earth Lagrange point 2, some 1.5 million km beyond Earth in the direction away from the Sun.From here, the CubeSat will use its new electric propulsion system to fly to a Distant Retrograde Orbit (DRO) around the Sun – an orbit similar to but more elliptical than that of the Earth, first invented by French astronomer Michel Hénon in 1969.The mission – Hénon’s namesake – will be the first ever spacecraft to fly in this type of orbit, which will take it 12 million km from Earth at its closest point, and 24 million km away at the farthest. As both Earth and Henon will be orbiting the Sun, their relative orbits will make for an interesting situation – Henon will appear as if it’s orbiting Earth in the shape of an ellipse instead.
Mission statusLaunch: Sun-Earth L2 transfer in Dec. 2026.Status: CDR ongoing, TRR scheduled in June 2026, QAR in October 2026.
