ESA green‑lights Aeolus‑2 development
Following the successful operation of the original Aeolus satellite, part of ESA’s Earth Explorer programme, the agency has formally approved the next phase of the project. Airbus Defence and Space, based in the United Kingdom, is now cleared to begin detailed design and engineering work on Aeolus‑2.
The upcoming satellite is intended to refine atmospheric wind measurements and thereby enhance the accuracy of operational weather models. With upgraded instrumentation and modern data‑processing capabilities, Aeolus‑2 is expected to deliver more precise observations of tropospheric wind patterns.
This approval comes after the first mission, launched in 2018, consistently provided valuable data for climate research and storm prediction. ESA officials highlight that Aeolus‑2 will become a cornerstone of Europe’s future weather‑monitoring infrastructure.
- Lead contractor: Airbus Defence and Space (UK)
- Program: Earth Explorer – weather and climate satellites
- Objective: improve operational weather forecasts
- Target launch: mid‑2030s
The next steps involve finalising system requirements, selecting launch vehicle options and defining verification procedures. ESA will coordinate closely with national meteorological services and research institutions to ensure seamless integration of the new data streams into existing forecasting systems.