Successful Launch of the Envisat Satellite
March 1st, 2002
March 1st, 2002
Successful Launch of the Envisat Satellite
The Envisat environmental satellite was successfully launched aboard an Ariane 5 rocket, marking a significant milestone in Earth observation technology. With its impressive dimensions of 10.5 meters in length and a diameter of 4.57 meters, Envisat was the largest satellite of its kind at the time. It reached an orbit of approximately 800 kilometers (500 miles) above the Earth, ready to undertake its mission focusing on various environmental monitoring tasks, including climate change and atmospheric studies. This launch was a testament to European ingenuity and capability in the realm of space exploration.
Envisat was the largest environmental satellite at launch.
The satellite collected data on climate and atmospheric changes.
Launched from Kourou in French Guiana.
Envisat's mission supported global environmental monitoring.
What Happened?
The Envisat satellite, launched aboard an Ariane 5 rocket, represents a significant achievement in satellite technology and Earth observation capabilities. With a staggering length of 10.5 meters and a diameter of 4.57 meters, Envisat was notably the largest environmental satellite ever placed into orbit at the time of its launch. It was designed to monitor the Earth's environment and contributed to a range of scientific fields including climatology, meteorology, oceanography, and land use. The satellite was equipped with a suite of ten advanced instruments, enabling it to collect data on various parameters such as atmospheric gases, sea surface temperatures, and land cover changes.
The launch occurred from Kourou, French Guiana, a tropical location ideal for space launches due to its proximity to the equator. Envisat’s successful deployment was not just a technological triumph but also an important step for the European Space Agency (ESA) as it sought to establish a robust Earth observation program. The satellite was expected to operate for at least five years, delivering critical data that would aid scientists in understanding how human activities and natural phenomena impact the planet's systems.
Following its launch, Envisat provided invaluable data that was used in environmental assessments and policy-making processes worldwide. Its capabilities allowed for continuous monitoring of the Earth's atmosphere, land, and oceans, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making concerning climate action and environmental conservation strategies.
Why Does it Matter?
The launch of Envisat marked a pivotal point in the field of Earth observation and environmental science. It enhanced the capacity for global monitoring of climate change and environmental degradation, making it a vital instrument for scientists and policymakers alike. The data generated by Envisat has played an essential role in international efforts to manage and address environmental challenges, making it a significant advance in the toolkit available for global environmental management.
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