MTG-I2 ready for launch

The Meteosat Third Generation-Imager 2 (MTG-I2) satellite has completed preparations for its scheduled launch on 27 August 2026 at 22:10 CEST from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. The mission will deploy the satellite aboard an Ariane 6 launcher, marking a key milestone in Europe’s meteorological satellite program. This follows the successful deployment of two earlier MTG satellites, which are currently operational in orbit.

MTG-I2 is designed to deliver high-resolution imagery for weather forecasting across Europe, offering unprecedented detail compared to existing systems. The satellite will provide data products and capabilities not previously available to European weather services, focusing on short-term forecasting of severe weather events. This includes improved detection of rapidly developing storms and other high-impact weather phenomena.

The satellite is part of the MTG constellation operated by Eumetsat, Europe’s meteorological satellite agency. Once operational, MTG-I2 will work in conjunction with its predecessors to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of weather predictions. The mission underscores Europe’s commitment to advancing its meteorological infrastructure to better serve public safety and economic resilience.

The launch date of 27 August 2026 has been confirmed by the European Space Agency, with final preparations now underway. The Ariane 6 launcher, developed by ArianeGroup, will carry MTG-I2 into geostationary orbit, where it will begin a multi-year mission to support European weather monitoring and forecasting.