MSG 1, 2, 3, 4 (Meteosat 8, 9, 10, 11)

MSG 1 [Astrium]

MSG (Meteosat Second Generation) features 12 channels enhanced imaging radiometer (SEVIRI) and the Geostationary Earth Radiation Budget (GERB) instrument.

The high performance of the new generation is 4 times better than the other ones on the market and 10 times better than Meteosat of the first generation.

They will ensure the continuity of current services and supply highly significant advances. The transmission rate of images is doubled (one image every 15 minutes) and the number of spectral channels rise from 3 to 12 (including 8 infrared channels), three allowing for access to comprehensive information on atmospheric physics. Spatial resolution is also enhanced: MSG is able to discern details down to 1 kilometer in a visible highresolution channel and 3 kilometers for the other channels. The general concept is derived from the first generation, but the platform and payload are completely new.

The satellites are being renamed to Meteosat when they become operational.