Copernicus, Europe's Global Monitoring for Environment and Security system: first satellite now in orbit
Bern, 01.04.2014 - Sentinel-1A and 1B are the first two of a series of satellites to be developed for the Copernicus programme − formerly known as Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES). On 3 April 2014, the European Space Agency (ESA) placed Sentinel-1A into orbit.
Sentinel-1A and 1B are radar imaging satellites designed to transmit data for such purposes as surveillance of marine environments, monitoring of land surface motion risks and mapping to facilitate response to natural or technological disasters. Participation in the ESA's programme to develop Sentinel satellites allows Switzerland to secure procurement contracts and gain access to scientific data. In addition, because Switzerland is a full-fledged member of the ESA, it is able to work with international partners and share in decision-making at the intergovernmental level. Swiss research institutes and companies were actively involved in development of the Sentinel-1 pair.
Address for enquiries
Jürg Schopfer
State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation SERI
Scientific Advisor for Earth Observation and Security Programmes
Tel. +41 58 464 10 72
juerg.schopfer@sbfi.admin.ch
Publisher
State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation
http://www.sbfi.admin.ch