Toulouse, France – Four new optical satellites, developed by Airbus in collaboration with the French Space Agency CNES, are en route to their launch site in French Guiana. The satellites departed from Toulouse, France, heading to the European Spaceport in Kourou for a scheduled launch on July 25 aboard a Vega-C rocket operated by Arianespace.
These CO3D (Constellation Optique 3D) satellites are designed and constructed by Airbus. They will provide high-resolution Digital Surface Model (DSM) services to CNES with 50 cm stereo imagery and 2D imagery for both government and commercial clients. Additionally, they will enhance Airbus’ existing optical and radar satellite capabilities.
Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus, stated: “CO3D is not only a step up in operational capability, it is also a game changer in terms of technological, industrial and commercial innovations. A partnership in French ingenuity, thanks to strong support from CNES, it will further enhance the S250: our next generation dual-use optical satellite product that is already attracting particular interest in today’s geo-political context.”
Each weighing around 285 kg and featuring full electric propulsion, these satellites are expected to operate for eight years. They will orbit Earth in pairs positioned on opposite sides of the planet at an altitude of 502 km. The data collected will be processed via a cloud-based ground segment managed by Airbus and includes an image processing chain provided by CNES.
The mission’s goal is to produce a comprehensive 3D map of Earth’s landmass within two years after six months of testing. This data aims to meet military needs for accurate cartography while also serving civil applications like hydrology and urban planning.
Among the technological advancements featured on these satellites is LASIN—a laser communication demonstrator—which allows download speeds up to 10 gigabits per second. Another innovation enables customers to upload applications directly onto the spacecraft for tasks such as AI-driven object detection.
The CO3D programme benefits from expertise gained through developing the OneWeb constellation with streamlined production systems inspired by aeronautics manufacturing processes.
Additionally, alongside the CO3D satellites, the carbon monitoring spacecraft Microcarb will be launched on the same rocket. Microcarb represents a joint mission between CNES and the UK Space Agency focused on mapping atmospheric carbon content globally using an advanced spectrometer built by Airbus.
