AI Generated Image
MTG-I2 ready for launch on Ariane 6
European Space Agency • • world
Key Points:
- The Meteosat Third Generation Imager2 satellite (MTG-I2) has been encapsulated in the Ariane 6 rocket fairing and positioned on its launch pad at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, with launch scheduled for the evening of 27 August 2026.
- MTG-I2 will enhance weather forecasting over Europe and northern Africa by providing high-resolution atmospheric images every 2.5 minutes, improving early warnings for severe weather and aiding sectors such as agriculture, transport, insurance, tourism, infrastructure, and energy.
- This launch marks the ninth flight of the Ariane 6 rocket and its first mission to geostationary transfer orbit, utilizing two P120C solid-propellant motors to deliver MTG-I2 to its operational orbit.
- The MTG satellite series is a collaborative effort led by ESA and built by European industry partners including Thales Alenia Space, OHB System, and Leonardo, with Eumetsat responsible for satellite operation and data distribution after commissioning.
