European satellite faces final tests

The largest and most sophisticated European built Earth observation satellite, Envisat, is nearing completion. Ten instruments have now been installed on the spacecraft, and the large radar antenna deployed. With the exception of the solar array, Envisat is now in its in-flig...

The largest and most sophisticated European built Earth observation satellite, Envisat, is nearing completion.

Ten instruments have now been installed on the spacecraft, and the large radar antenna deployed. With the exception of the solar array, Envisat is now in its in-flight configuration.

Over the coming weeks, the satellite will complete its final test sequences as the ESA test centre in Noordwijk, the Netherlands, before being shipped to Kourou, French Guiana in April for the launch. Take off is planned for the second half of July, after which five years of in-orbit operations are foreseen.

The media will have a final opportunity to see the ten metre satellite on 1 February, at ESA's ESTEC establishment, where leading international scientists and representatives from the project team will present further information on the spacecraft and the mission's objectives.kraine

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Netherlands