Airbus launches CO3D satellites to create detailed 3D map of Earth

The four Airbus-built CO3D satellites have been successfully placed into orbit by an Arianespace Vega-C rocket from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. Developed in partnership with the French Space Agency (CNES), these satellites will create a detailed 3D map of the Earth’s surface.

The CO3D satellites will provide high-resolution imagery to CNES and 2D imagery to government and commercial clients. This strengthens Airbus's suite of optical and radar satellite solutions.

Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus, highlighted the significance of this launch in advancing Earth observation capabilities. The satellites, based on the S250 product, will offer a game-changing 3D map of the planet.

These 285 kg satellites are now in orbit at 502 km altitude. Over the next months, they will undergo testing before starting an 18-month campaign to map France and the ‘crisis arc’ for CNES.

The CO3D satellites feature innovative technology like the Step and Stare observation mode, providing agility and high-resolution images. The programme benefits from manufacturing expertise gained from the OneWeb constellation satellites’ development.

Also deployed on the same launch was the MicroCarb satellite, a joint mission between CNES and the UK Space Agency, aimed at mapping atmospheric carbon content on a planetary scale.

According to the source: Airbus.