The world’s longest-serving meteorological satellite in geostationary orbit has been lifted at least 247km above the geostationary orbit, as part of its end-of-life manoeuvres.
Launched on 28 August 2002, Meteosat-8 was the first of the Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) meteorological satellites, which marked a major technological advance in satellite meteorology.
Now that its useful life has come to an end, Eumetsat scientists have finalised the process of moving the spacecraft to what is known as the 'graveyard orbit', in order to minimise the risk of collision with operational satellites.
“At the time Meteosat-8 was designed, guidelines did not exist for the safe disposal of satellites when their operational lifetime ended,” explained Eumetsat director-general Phil Evans.
“Excellent spacecraft design and careful operations enabled us to extend Meteosat-8’s life well beyond the expected 7.5 years. Importantly, we were also able to ensure enough...