Europe’s New Eye in Orbit: Copernicus Satellite Sentinel-1D Takes Flight
Europe has launched its latest Copernicus satellite, Sentinel-1D, marking a significant advancement in Earth observation and space independence. The satellite was launched from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on 4 November 2025 at 22:02 CET (21:02 UTC) aboard an Ariane 6 rocket.
Thirty-four minutes after liftoff, Sentinel-1D was successfully placed into orbit. The first signal was received at 23:22 CET by the Troll ground station in Antarctica, confirming the satellite's successful deployment. This launch guarantees the continuation of Europe’s leading radar-based Earth observation system, providing continuous monitoring of the planet in all weather conditions, day and night.
Significance of the Mission
Simonetta Cheli, Director of the European Space Agency (ESA) Earth Observation Programmes, highlighted the importance of this launch:
“This launch on board Ariane 6 is an important one for ESA, as it completes the Copernicus Sentinel-1 mission – soon Sentinel-1D will be commissioned and fully operational, together with Sentinel-1C. The continuity of service this provides for the EU Space Programme is vital for addressing the global challenges we face.
Citizens will benefit from the contribution this mission makes to scientific understanding of our environment – by providing accurate, reliable and actionable radar data on movements in our ice sheets, on our forest ecosystems, ground movements and much more.”
Benefits of Sentinel-1D
- Ensures uninterrupted radar-based Earth monitoring
- Monitors environmental changes such as ice sheet dynamics and forest ecosystem shifts
- Supports ground movement tracking for safety and scientific studies
- Operates regardless of weather or daylight conditions
This milestone strengthens Europe’s leadership in space-based Earth observation, enabling better responses to environmental challenges through continuous, precise data.
Author’s summary: Sentinel-1D’s successful launch ensures Europe's radar Earth observation system remains operational, providing vital data for environmental monitoring and global challenges.