Airbus to Launch Its First Pléiades Neo Next Satellite in Early 2028
Airbus has announced the launch of its first Pléiades Neo Next satellite in early 2028 from the European spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. This new program is part of the group's strategy to enhance its Earth observation capabilities and services.
Enhancing Earth Observation Capabilities
The Pléiades Neo Next program aims to bolster Airbus's Earth observation capabilities and services. This program will introduce new satellite assets and features, including a native resolution of 20 centimeters. According to Eric Even, Head of Space Digital at Airbus Defence and Space, 'This program will further enhance our excellence in quality, performance, and reliability in delivering images as well as geo-intelligence services and applications.' The satellite will be launched aboard an Avio Vega C rocket from the European spaceport in Kourou.
A Comprehensive Program Funded and Operated by Airbus
The Pléiades Neo Next program is funded, manufactured, and operated by Airbus Defence and Space. The satellite imagery will be available for a wide range of sectors: defense and intelligence, agriculture, environment, maritime, disaster management, mapping, location-based services, civil engineering, urban planning, and utilities. Alongside the satellite development, Airbus will enhance the ground segment, including the Direct Receiving Stations (DRS) and the OneAtlas platform. Combined with the existing Pléiades Neo constellation, the Pléiades Neo Next mission will offer more frequent revisits to any point on the globe.
