ERS2

ERS2, also known as the European Remote Sensing Satellite 2, was an Earth observation satellite operated by the European Space Agency (ESA). Launched on July 21, 1995, ERS2 was part of ESA's Earth Observation Programme, building upon the success of its predecessor, ERS1. The primary mission of ERS2 was to gather data on the Earth's oceans, atmosphere, and land surfaces, contributing to a better understanding of climate change and environmental processes.

The satellite carried a suite of sophisticated instruments, including an Active Microwave Instrument (AMI) which functioned as both a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and a wave scatterometer. The SAR provided all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities, essential for monitoring sea ice, deforestation, and land use changes. The wave scatterometer measured ocean wave heights and directions, vital for marine forecasting and research. ERS2 also featured an Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (ATSR-2) to measure sea surface temperature and vegetation properties, and a scatterometer to measure wind speed and direction over the oceans.

ERS2's mission was extended multiple times, demonstrating its continued utility and the robustness of its systems. Over its operational lifespan, it generated a vast archive of valuable data that has been used by scientists worldwide for a wide range of applications, from disaster monitoring and management to climate modeling and oceanography. ERS2 was deorbited on July 29, 2011, concluding a successful and impactful mission that significantly advanced Earth observation capabilities.