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Europe is preparing to expand its Earth observation capabilities with the launch of the Copernicus Sentinel-3C satellite on 14 September 2026
Copernicus Sentinel-3C will lift off from the European Spaceport in French Guiana aboard Avio’s Vega-C rocket as part of the European Union’s Copernicus programme.
Copernicus Sentinel-3C will be placed into a Sun-synchronous orbit approximately 820 kilometres above Earth, where it will join Sentinel-3A and Sentinel-3B. Together, the three satellites will continue providing a continuous stream of environmental data that supports scientists, governments, businesses and emergency services around the world.
Climate and environmental monitoring
The Copernicus programme is funded and managed by the European Commission and delivers free Earth observation data that helps monitor the changing planet. Sentinel-3C will strengthen these services by collecting detailed information about the oceans, land, ice and atmosphere.
Its advanced instruments will measure sea surface temperatures, sea levels, ocean colour and land cover, while also tracking a range of environmental indicators. These observations play a vital role in monitoring climate change, protecting ecosystems and improving the understanding of natural processes.
One important application is detecting algal blooms. By monitoring changes in ocean colour, Copernicus Sentinel-3 satellites help scientists identify and track these blooms by providing valuable information for protecting marine environments and supporting the sustainable management of coastal waters.
Helping communities respond to environmental challenges
Sentinel-3 data are used every day to respond to environmental events. The satellites support wildfire monitoring, assist in assessing the impact of extreme weather and provide detailed measurements of land surface temperatures during heatwaves.
This information helps authorities better understand how rising temperatures affect communities, agriculture and natural habitats. By delivering reliable data throughout the year, the Sentinel-3 mission contributes to improved planning, environmental protection and disaster response.
A joint European mission
The addition of Copernicus Sentinel-3C will also ensure the long-term continuity of these services, maintaining a consistent flow of high-quality observations for users across the globe.
Sentinel-3C was developed by the European Space Agency on behalf of the European Commission, with Thales Alenia Space serving as the prime contractor alongside a broad network of European companies responsible for the satellite’s instruments and systems.
After completing its in-orbit testing, operational responsibility will transfer to EUMETSAT, which will manage the satellite and distribute its data and services to users worldwide.
Weighing around 1,143 kilograms, Sentinel-3C will share its journey into space with ESA’s FLEX (Fluorescence Explorer) satellite in a dual launch aboard the Vega-C rocket.
Complementary missions for a clearer picture of Earth
While Sentinel-3C will continue delivering broad observations of Earth’s oceans, land and atmosphere, FLEX will focus on measuring vegetation fluorescence. By combining data from both satellites, researchers will gain a more complete understanding of plant health, ecosystem activity and the effects of climate change on global vegetation.
With Copernicus Sentinel-3C joining the existing Sentinel-3 satellites, Europe is reinforcing its commitment to providing reliable environmental information that supports scientific research, public safety and informed decision-making. The new satellite is expected to play a key role in ensuring that critical Earth observation data remain available for many years to come.