La Cosmo-SkyMed constellation of Second Generation takes another decisive step. The third satellite of the Italian radar system for Earth observation it was thesuccessfully launched January 3 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 launcherFifty-nine minutes after separation from the rocket, the signal was regularly acquired by the Fucino Space Center, confirming the correct insertion into orbit and the start of the first control operations.
What is Cosmo-SkyMed?
Cosmo-SkyMed, a dual system for civil and defense applications, is owned by the Italian Space Agency and the Ministry of Defense. With this third Second Generation satellite, the constellation strengthens its position. continuity of SAR radar services and introduces new technological solutions that further improve image quality, territory coverage, and overall system resilience.
I progress concern both the space and ground segments, significantly expanding the possible applications. The program foresees the completion of the constellation with a fourth satellite, currently in the integration and testing phase, whose launch is planned at the beginning of the 2027Overall, COSMO-SkyMed confirms its position as a new performance benchmark for space radar systems.
From the environment to emergencies, millions of images at the service of countries
Since its first launch in 2007, the constellation has collected approximately 4,3 million images, become an essential tool for the environmental and territorial monitoring, security, and emergency management. COSMO-SkyMed data also feed European observation systems, including Copernicus, and are used by numerous international institutional users. A prime example is the European Commission's Emergency Rapid Mapping service, which uses radar imagery to produce maps of areas affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises in just a few hours.
Italian industry at the heart of the program
The Cosmo-SkyMed project sees theItalian industry in a prominent position. Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), is responsible of the entire Second Generation program, from the construction of the satellites to the design and commissioning of the complete system. Telespazio, JV between Leonardo (67%) and Thales (33%), takes care of the ground segment and operations, managing all the launch, verification and commissioning phases from Fucino up to routine operations. Leonardo contributes with advanced equipment for attitude control and electrical energy management. global data commercialization is entrusted to e-GEOS, which uses satellite information to develop operational services in areas ranging from emergency management to security, from infrastructure monitoring to precision agriculture and the protection of natural resources.
"Each Cosmo-SkyMed launch represents a significant milestone for the Italian national space system and its production chain. The program, developed to meet the requirements of the Italian Space Agency and the Ministry of Defense, reflects the technological and industrial excellence led by Leonardo together with the joint ventures Thales Alenia Space, Telespazio, and e-GEOS. Earth observation and the resulting data are a strategic resource for safety and sustainability, enabling increasingly targeted and timely services and interventions. This commitment strengthens Italy's role in space and helps generate value for the country and the international community," stated Leonardo. Massimo Claudio Comparini, Managing Director of the Space Division of Leonardo.
"As responsible for the entire Cosmo-SkyMed Second Generation program, Thales Alenia Space is extremely proud of this successful launch, which further demonstrates the company's excellence in radar technology and the dedication of our teams. Once fully deployed with its four satellites, the constellation will deliver significant technological and performance advances, strengthening Thales Alenia Space's global leadership in space infrastructure for Earth observation," commented Thales Alenia Space. Giampiero Di Paolo, Chief Executive Officer of Thales Alenia Space Italy.
