NASA and ESA Prepare to Launch Sentinel-6B Satellite for Global Sea Level Monitoring

NASA, in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), is gearing up to launch the Sentinel-6B satellite, a critical mission designed to monitor global sea levels with unprecedented accuracy. Covering more than 90% of Earth's oceans, Sentinel-6B will provide essential data to scientists tracking climate change and its impact on rising sea levels worldwide. The Sentinel-6B satellite is the second of two identical satellites in the Copernicus Sentinel-6 mission, following the successful launch of Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich in 2020. Equipped with advanced radar altimeters and state-of-the-art instruments, Sentinel-6B will continue the legacy of precise ocean surface measurements, helping researchers better understand ocean circulation, weather patterns, and long-term climate trends. Before Sentinel-6B can begin its vital work, the satellite must first be successfully launched into orbit. The mission team is finalizing preparations, ensuring all systems are ready for liftoff. Once in orbit, Sentinel-6B will join its predecessor in collecting high-resolution data, which will be made available to scientists and policymakers around the globe. This mission represents a significant international partnership, with contributions from NASA, ESA, the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Together, these agencies are committed to advancing our understanding of Earth's oceans and supporting efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Stay tuned for updates as Sentinel-6B embarks on its journey to enhance global sea level monitoring and support critical climate research. Read the source »