MetOp Second Generation-B1 in the anechoic chamber

The MetOp Second Generation-B1 satellite has entered its third and most delicate round of pre-launch testing, marking another step towards strengthening Europe’s weather forecasting capabilities. Engineers are now putting the satellite through rigorous electromagnetic compatibility tests to ensure that its many electronic systems can operate without interfering with one another once this new weather satellite is in orbit around Earth next year.

The photograph shows MetOp-SG-B1 in the anechoic chamber at Airbus’ facilities in Toulouse, France. The room is lined with the striking blue pyramidal foam absorbers. The entire chamber is shielded like a Faraday cage, blocking outside signals while preventing internal reflections. Inside this silent environment, the satellite is subjected to a series of rigorous trials.

Read full story: Next MetOp Second Generation weather satellite in the spotlight