The Copernicus Sentinel-4 mission was successfully launched on July 1, 2025, from Cape Canaveral and is now in orbit. It marks the first geostationary Copernicus mission dedicated to monitoring air quality above Europe specifically, enhancing the EU’s Earth Observation capabilities.
Sentinel-4 carries a state-of-the-art UVN (Ultraviolet Visible Near-infrared) spectrometer designed to precisely measure key atmospheric pollutants such as ozone (O₃), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), formaldehyde (HCHO), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and aerosols.
Once calibrated, the satellite will deliver hourly data on atmospheric composition. This information will support the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) in providing real-time insights to scientists, policymakers, and environmental agencies, aiding efforts to reduce pollution and improve air quality across Europe.
The mission contributes directly to EU environmental policies, including the Ambient Air Quality Directive and the Zero Pollution Action Plan.
Copernicus is the Earth Observation component of the EU Space Programme.
Read more about the Sentinel-4 mission here
Details
- Publication date
- 2 July 2025
- Author
- Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space
- Department
- Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space
- EU Space