ESA is a world leader in forging innovative space technologies to deliver data that underpin the science needed to understand Earth and how it is changing – transforming observations into trusted knowledge that supports decisions to strengthen the resilience, sustainability and prosperity of societies – today and for the future.
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Discover Earth observation
Earth observation missions
ESA has been dedicated to observing Earth from space ever since the launch of its first Meteosat weather satellite back in 1977. The need for information from satellites is growing at an ever-increasing rate. With ESA as world-leader in Earth observation, the Agency remains dedicated to developing cutting-edge spaceborne technology to further understand the planet, improve daily lives and support effect policy-making for a more sustainable future.
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Earth observation images
Related news
MTG-I2 weather satellite delivers first images
The Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) mission’s second Imager satellite has delivered its first images, showing weather patterns over Europe and Africa.
Time to wake up MetOp-SG-B1 weather satellite
Following a short period in storage after arriving at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, the MetOp Second Generation-B1 satellite has been transferred to a cleanroom and removed from its transport container.
Ice mission CRISTAL opens its wings
With its solar arrays integrated and key qualification reviews under way, Europe’s new ice-monitoring satellite, CRISTAL, is moving from assembly into the demanding testing phase that will demonstrate its readiness for the rigours of launch and life in orbit.
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Earth from space
Explore some of the most beautiful and remote places on Earth through fabulous images taken from space.
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Earth observation videos
MTG-I2 weather satellite delivers first images
Greenland ice sheet elevation from Sentinel-3C
Jakobshavn Glacier flow
ESA’s FLEX mission reveals the secret glow of plants
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More resources
Space for our climate
ESA's role in understanding climate change
Destination Earth
Learn more about Destination Earth, an initiative of the European Union that aims to develop a digital twin, or replica, of our planet.
International Charter Space and Major Disasters
Every year, millions of people around the world are affected by natural or human-made disasters. The increased frequency and intensity of disasters such as storms and floods, coupled with the exposure of vulnerable populations and assets, have put disasters high on the list of modern-day challenges.