The European Space Agency (ESA) has selected a consortium led by Thales Alenia Space and OHB to enter into exclusive negotiations on the E1.3bn contract for the Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) weather satellite constellation.
The program consists of six…
The European Space Agency (ESA) has selected a consortium led by Thales Alenia Space and OHB to enter into exclusive negotiations on the E1.3bn contract for the Meteosat Third Generation (MTG) weather satellite constellation.
The program consists of six satellites, four if which are imaging spacecraft accompanied by two more equipped with atmospheric sounders. The new constellation will improve the accuracy in weather forecasting.
Thales and OHB won out over a rival bid led by EADS Astrium. If negotiations are successful, the final award of the contract is expected to take place in June. If no contract can be finalised then ESA reserves the right to reopen talks with Astrium.
Thales Alenia Space CEO Reynald Seznec said: “We are very proud of being chosen to meet the challenge of building the most ambitious geostationary satellites ever developed in Europe. This selection clearly confirms our expertise in space meteorology, as well as our commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change, environmental management and sustainable development.”
