On December 12, 2024, the Meteosat-12 satellite was launched, marking a significant advancement in meteorological observation and prediction. This satellite, part of the third generation of Meteosat satellites, offers enhanced imaging capabilities and advanced data collection for scientists and meteorologists worldwide.
Positioned in geostationary orbit at 36,000 kilometers above Earth, Meteosat-12 captures unprecedented detail in cloud formations, distinguishing features as small as one square kilometer. Its technological upgrades include the ability to detect atmospheric electrical discharges, such as lightning strikes and inter-cloud lightning.
Meteosat-12 also aids in identifying fog, Saharan dust, and volcanic ash, contributing to more accurate weather forecasting. While it does not directly measure rainfall, it estimates potential precipitation based on cloud height and provides critical data for assessing wildfire risks in specific regions.
The primary objective of Meteosat-12 is to integrate its data into numerical models to enhance weather prediction accuracy. Its contributions are especially valuable in studying cloud physics, a complex field due to the three-dimensional nature of clouds. The satellite transmits information every two and a half minutes about Europe and other areas, revolutionizing real-time monitoring of atmospheric phenomena.
Francisco J. Tapiador, a professor of Physics, emphasized the satellite's significance: 'Meteosat-12 represents a major advancement in understanding atmospheric phenomena. It allows us to observe cloud microphysics in unprecedented detail, improving weather prediction and our ability to anticipate extreme events.'
Additionally, the satellite's capability to analyze cloud microphysics enables the differentiation between liquid water and ice crystals, as well as the determination of droplet sizes. This information is essential for studying atmospheric rivers, which carry large volumes of water and are often linked to extreme rainfall and potential flooding.
Meteosat-12 signifies a leap forward in meteorological observation. With advanced tools and greater precision, it promises not only to enhance weather prediction but also to deepen the understanding of the complex processes governing Earth's atmosphere. This satellite is a vital resource in addressing challenges such as climate change and extreme weather events.