EUMETSAT is deepening its global footprint in Earth observation with a trio of new international agreements designed to accelerate scientific innovation and secure the flow of critical satellite data.
New agreements have been forged with the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and the UK’s National Centre for Earth Observation (NCEO), alongside a renewed partnership with China’s National Satellite Ocean Application Service (NSOAS).
Together, these alliances are set to enhance the global exchange of satellite data and accelerate advances in the monitoring of oceans, atmosphere and climate.
As the organisation responsible for delivering satellite-based weather and climate information to 30 European Member States, EUMETSAT depends on strong international ties to advance research, improve algorithms, and ensure continuous access to critical global datasets.
The newly signed cooperation frameworks aim to strengthen the scientific foundations that support public safety, economic resilience and environmental understanding.
Boosting atmospheric and meteorological research
The agreement with DLR establishes a broad platform for collaboration across atmospheric science and satellite innovation.
The partnership will focus on refining measurement techniques, improving data processing systems and supporting the development of future missions.
One of the key objectives is to advance Earth observation capabilities related to atmospheric composition and greenhouse gas tracking.
The two organisations will share scientific expertise, exchange researchers and participate in joint studies to verify satellite measurements.
The cooperation also builds on years of successful project work, including contributions to EUMETSAT’s Satellite Application Facilities and the METimage instrument flying on the new Metop Second Generation A1 satellite.
By aligning research priorities, the partnership aims to enhance the accuracy of meteorological products used by national weather services and climate specialists across Europe.
Expanding multidisciplinary Earth system science
The new agreement with the UK’s NCEO adds another major scientific partner to EUMETSAT’s global Earth observation network.
This collaboration brings together expertise in atmospheric dynamics, marine remote sensing, hydrology and the Earth’s radiation budget.
Beyond traditional research cooperation, the framework places significant emphasis on next-generation data methods, including artificial intelligence and machine learning.
These technologies are expected to streamline data processing, improve prediction models and support new mission concepts for future satellites.
The agreement also encourages calibration and validation activities, capacity-building programmes and support for transforming scientific research into operational tools used by meteorological and environmental agencies.
Together, EUMETSAT and NCEO aim to accelerate the delivery of advanced Earth observation products that monitor environmental change and support decision-makers.
Reinforcing ocean monitoring links with China
EUMETSAT’s renewed Memorandum of Understanding with NSOAS continues a long-standing partnership that began in 2012. The agreement secures ongoing, reciprocal access to satellite data essential for tracking ocean conditions.
Through high-speed data exchange, both partners will maintain near-real-time access to information on sea surface temperature, wave patterns, ocean height, winds and water quality.
These observations underpin accurate weather forecasting and are crucial for climate research, maritime operations and coastal protection.
The extended cooperation ensures that both European and Chinese scientific communities can benefit from broader and more consistent ocean monitoring capabilities.
A stronger global network for the future
Collectively, these agreements reinforce EUMETSAT’s role at the centre of a global Earth observation ecosystem.
By strengthening ties with major research institutions, the agency aims to deliver more sophisticated satellite products, support long-term climate monitoring and continue providing vital services that protect lives and economies across its Member States.
