EUMETSAT takes control of MTG-I2 meteorological satellite

EUMETSAT has successfully assumed control of the Meteosat Third Generation Imager 2 (MTG-I2) following its successful launch and initial orbit phase (LEOP). The satellite was launched by Arianespace aboard an Ariane 62 rocket from the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana.

Built by Thales Alenia Space in cooperation with OHB, the MTG-I2 is designed to significantly enhance weather forecasting capabilities across Europe and Africa. Once fully operational, the satellite will provide meteorological images of Europe every 2.5 minutes, a significant increase in frequency compared to previous systems. This high-resolution monitoring is intended to improve the prediction of extreme weather phenomena.

The satellite has reached its geostationary orbit approximately 36,000 km above Earth. EUMETSAT, in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), will now begin extensive calibration and validation activities. Full operational service is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2027.