Copernicus Programme

Why in news?

The third Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite was launched aboard a Vega-C rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.

About Copernicus Programme

Purpose and Scope:
- The Copernicus Programme is the Earth observation arm of the European Union’s Space Programme.
- It aims to deploy 20 satellites by 2030 to offer services based on satellite Earth observation and in-situ data (non-space data).
Key Partners: Key partners include the European Commission, European Space Agency (ESA), EUMETSAT, ECMWF, GSA, EU member states, national space agencies, and research organizations.
Data Collection Sources:
- The programme uses a multi-source system, comprising:
  - Sentinel Earth Observation Satellites
  - In-situ sensors (e.g., ground stations)
  - Airborne and sea-borne sensors
Free and Open Access: The data collected is freely accessible and processed into near-real-time information for global users.
Sentinel Satellites:
- Sentinel-1A (launched in 2014) marked the start of the satellite constellation.
- Future satellites, like Sentinel-1C, are designed to monitor Earth’s environment, support scientific research, and track maritime traffic.
Six Thematic Areas:
- Atmosphere: Monitoring air quality and climate change.
- Marine: Observation of oceans, seas, and coastal regions.
- Land: Monitoring land use, agriculture, and vegetation.
- Climate: Long-term climate monitoring and forecasting.
- Emergency Response: Disaster management and crisis response.
- Security: Surveillance of borders and illegal activities.
Collaboration and Funding: Managed by the European Commission, the programme operates in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA) and other EU agencies, ensuring efficient satellite operations and data services.
Future Developments: By 2030, the Copernicus Programme aims to have a complete fleet of Earth observation satellites, ensuring continuous and comprehensive monitoring of Earth, providing reliable data to global users.