The first Earth images from CSG-FM3 were released on 19 January, about two weeks after its launch.
CSG-FM3 supports agricultural applications through dual-polarization data that help assess vegetation type, growth, and soil moisture conditions.
CSG-FM3 features a new-generation radar antenna that enables simultaneous acquisition of multiple images of different territories.
CSG-FM3 was launched on 2 January from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
CSG-FM3 includes a laser reflector array developed by INFN to determine the satellite’s orbital solution with high resolution and improve image georeferencing.
CSG-FM3 provides advanced monitoring capabilities including emergency management, environmental risk prevention, coastal analysis, maritime traffic verification, and coastal erosion monitoring.
CSG-FM3 is the third second-generation satellite of the COSMO-SkyMed Earth Observation program.
Before CSG-FM3’s arrival, the Italian COSMO-SkyMed constellation comprised four operational satellites: two first-generation (CSK) and two second-generation (CSG) satellites.
CSG-FM3 incorporates additive manufacturing solutions to lighten certain satellite appendages.
Telespazio, in collaboration with Thales Alenia Space Italia, carried out key validation activities for COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 during initial operations.
Critical operations required for COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 commissioning were completed prior to starting orbital calibration and validation phases.
Initial operations and verification activities for COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 were conducted at the ASI Space Centre in Matera.
Initial acquisitions from COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 indicate correct functioning of the satellite's radar observation system and the projected data quality.
The initial acquisitions from COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 confirm the expected performance of the second-generation COSMO-SkyMed constellation.
COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 carries a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensor aboard the satellite.
The calibration and validation phases in orbit are required to bring COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 to full operational status.
Once operational, COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 will support applications including environmental protection, emergency management, and territorial security.
COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 began providing its first Earth acquisitions a few days after launch.
The first images from COSMO SkyMed CSG FM3 include Rome, Vancouver, and an area along the Padma River in Bangladesh.
The progressive entry of CSG FM3 into the COSMO-SkyMed constellation strengthens Italy's role among leading European operators of spaceborne radar systems.