New COSMO-SkyMed satellite set for launch
The first Constellation of Satellites for the Mediterranean basin Observation (COSMO)-SkyMed Second Generation (CSG-1) satellite is to be launched today, 13 December, from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.
CSG-1 is a dual civil and defence constellation of two satellites dedicated to ensuring the operational continuity of the Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) observation services provided by the four satellites of the COSMO-SkyMed first generation, operating in orbit since 2007 and 2010.
The programme is financed by the Italian Space Agency and the Ministry of Defence. Thales Alenia Space is responsible for the overall COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation programme, including the design and development of the two CSG-1 satellites and the end-to-end system design, integration and commissioning.
Thales Alenia Space is principal contractor in the Industrial Consortium RTI with Telespazio, which is responsible for designing and developing the CSG ground segment and providing the integrated logistics and operations services. Leonardo supplies the attitude sensors for the orientation of the satellite, solar panels, and the units that process and distribute electric power throughout the satellite.
COSMO-SkyMed satellites monitor the entire surface of the Earth from space, day and night, under any weather conditions, using high-resolution X-band radars.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
British Army’s ISR commander warns of new challenges facing defence forces
The race between using ISR and resisting the use of it by enemies has accelerated, leading to new methods and systems being required, according to the British Army’s lead on its ISR efforts.
-
Jacobs wins MoD cyber-security support contract
The deal with Jacobs will run until November 2027 and will see the company deliver a range of digital and IT specialist professional services to Defence Digital.
-
Orbit upgrades two multi-purpose terminals and carries out land testing
The communications company has upgraded two of its Beyond Line-of-Sight Multi-Purpose Terminals (MBTs) by introducing advancements in satellite communication technology and AI-driven maintenance capabilities.
-
Norway to receive maritime surveillance satellite data from Kongsberg
Norway's Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace has announced that its subsidiary Kongsberg NanoAvionics will produce three satellites and launch them in 2025.
-
First South Korean 425 Project observation satellite launched
In 2015, South Korea named a consortium of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hanwha Systems, along with Thales Alenia Space providing the SAR payload derived from its HE-R1000 product, as preferred bidder to develop new Korea 425 Project reconnaissance satellites.