Sentinel-5: ultra-precise satellite data for a healthier future
On the night of August 13, the weather satellite MetOp-SG-A1 was successfully launched aboard an Ariane 6 rocket. Onboard is the advanced measuring instrument Sentinel-5 - a major step forward in monitoring the air we breathe.
‘This mission is a showcase of European collaboration, but also of Dutch innovation. What we learned from TROPOMI, we applied to Sentinel-5. And everything we learned from this complex mission can be used in future Earth observation missions.’
Sentinel-5 is part of the European Copernicus program and provides crucial data for daily air quality forecasts and long-term climate monitoring. Building on the success of TROPOMI, the instrument is designed to deliver the most accurate air quality data ever collected.
TNO plays a key role in this mission. Our experts in Delft developed high-end optical technology: a UV1 spectrometer for ultra-precise measurements and two compact, lightweight optical telescopes. These components are robust enough to withstand the forces of a launch - up to 22 times the force of gravity.
To ensure a continuous data stream for the next 21 years, all components were built three times. That means two decades of reliable information for scientists, policymakers, and citizens around the world. Sentinel-5 doesn’t just look at the atmosphere - it helps us build a healthier, more sustainable future.
TNO’s contribution to Sentinel-5
Effective environmental and climate action starts with reliable and consistent data on air pollution and atmospheric composition. TNO is proud to contribute to a new generation of satellites that, over the next 21 years, will provide global daily measurements of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, formaldehyde, glyoxal, aerosols, carbon monoxide and methane.
Contact us
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Ton Maree
Functie:Senior Business Developer, Space & Scientific InstrumentationContact me to connect with TNO and solve your challenges in Earth Observation (EO) and Space-Based Astronomy instruments. I work with governments and industries to open up new global markets for TNO’s Space innovations.
I also manage the R&D investment portfolio for Space-Based Astronomy technologies, like highly accurate space mechanisms, metrology systems, sun sensors, telescopes, and more.
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Standplaats:Delft - Stieltjesweg
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Email:Email Ton
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LinkedIn:Ton on LinkedIn
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