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Defence Industry and Space
News article22 November 2020Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space

“An example of Europe’s strategic autonomy”: Commissioner Breton announces the successful Sentinel-6 launch

Following the successful launch of the Sentinel 6 Michael Freilich, Commissioner Thierry Breton is proud to announce that the satellite is currently underway to reach its orbit.

He praises all of the teams involved who have shown their highest of efforts in spite of the COVID crisis. Furthermore, the Commissioner thanks European companies such as Airbus Defence and Space as well as American companies (NASA and NOAA) for their close transatlantic cooperation that led to the promising Sentinel 6 mission.

Once it has reached its orbit, the satellite will join the Copernicus Sentinel family and continue the unique record of mean sea level measurements, now with more accurate observations and state-of-the-art instruments onboard. Sentinel 6 will deliver precise data on global sea surface altimetry to marine and climate services. The data will provide valuable information on the human impact on our planet.

Copernicus is the most ambitious Earth Observation programme worldwide as it supports Europe’s goal regarding sustainable development by providing quality data information services and knowledge. It contributes to the European Green Deal and strengthens the economy in a digitised world. “Copernicus plays a key to safeguard our planet for future generations,” as Commissioner Breton says and the Sentinel 6 mission is “an example of Europe’s strategic autonomy: an independent, strong system but open to international cooperation.”

Details

Publication date
22 November 2020
Author
Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space