Ariane 6 Launches Sentinel-1D Radar Imaging Satellite
On November 4, Ariane 6 successfully launched the radar imaging satellite Sentinel-1D, following a decision by European agencies to use a larger rocket for an earlier deployment.
The rocket lifted off from the European spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, at 4:02 p.m. Sentinel-1D separated from the upper stage 33½ minutes after liftoff.
Satellite Overview
Sentinel-1D, weighing 2,184 kilograms, was built by Thales Alenia Space for the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Commission’s Copernicus program. It operates in a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 693 kilometers.
- Equipped with a C-band synthetic aperture radar
- Includes an Automatic Identification System (AIS) payload
Mission and Capabilities
The satellite continues the work of earlier Sentinel-1 satellites by supporting Earth observation tasks such as agriculture monitoring, flood detection, and tracking ground movements.
“You can compare and combine the data,” said Mauro Facchini, head of the Copernicus unit at the European Commission’s DEFIS directorate, referring to the radar imagery and AIS data. This helps analysts “check those vessels that are not transmitting,” like ships involved in smuggling or piracy.
Replacement and Longevity
Sentinel-1D replaces Sentinel-1A, which has been operational for over 11 years but is now showing signs of wear, especially in its propulsion system.
Summary: The Ariane 6 launch of Sentinel-1D enhances Europe's Earth observation capabilities by deploying an advanced radar satellite equipped to monitor environmental changes and maritime activity.