Offloading MetOp-SG-B1 at Pariacabo harbour

Following a 10-day voyage across the Atlantic from Bordeaux in France, the MetOp Second Generation-B1 weather satellite, has arrived at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. After a short storage period, this new satellite will be prepared for launch aboard an Ariane 6 rocket, expected at the end of the year.

The photograph shows the MetOp-SG-B1 satellite container being offloaded from the Canopée ship at Pariacabo harbour in French Guiana. Combining wind power with conventional fuel, this innovative vessel offers the most sustainable way of transporting MetOp-SG-B1 across the Atlantic. On board were the satellite, securely housed in its transport container, and six additional containers of essential launch-preparation equipment – 75 tonnes of cargo in total.