GOCE soon in orbit
ESA TV Exchanges
Europe prepares to launch the GOCE satellite to map our planet's gravity field in unprecedented detail. The data GOCE delivers will advance our understanding of global ocean circulation patterns and climate change.
For more info on this subject please check the script that is online as a PDF file under : http://television.esa.int/photos/EbS62098.pdf
A WMV preview clip is online under : http://esatv-movies.e-vision.nl/videos/mphi/Goce_in_orbit_TV_06-08-08_wmplow.wmv
More backgroud information can be found on: http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/GOCE/SEMULOWX3RF_0.html

TC 09.57.31 still image of GOCE (error during playout)
TC 09.58.15 BARS
TC 10.00.00 start program
GOCE in orbit
10:00:40 The GOCE satellite, the first of six ESA scientific missions to study the earth from space, is set to launch. These missions, known as the earth explorer missions, will help us better understand the earth and predict climate change in the future. They will also put Europe in pole position on Earth observation in the coming years. Images-animation of GOCE Launch
After its launch GOCE will have 6 weeks to slowly descend to the unusually low dusk-dawn orbit at 26O kilometres above the earth. GOCE needs to be in such a low orbit to pick up the tiniest variations in pull from the earthís gravity field with its incredibly sensitive instruments.
Images ñ satellite seperation then graphic model of GOCE orbit
The satellites aerodynamic shape is especially designed to minimizethe effects of air drag at such a low orbit. An ion engine will provide GOCE with a constant low level thrust to keep it i