EUMETSAT, also known as the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites, is an intergovernmental organization that primarily focuses on operating meteorological satellites to provide accurate and timely weather, climate, and environmental information to its member states and the global community.
With its headquarters based in Darmstadt, Germany, EUMETSAT works in collaboration with national meteorological services and other international organizations, such as the European Space Agency (ESA) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The organization was established in 1986 and currently has 30 European Member States.
EUMETSAT's main objective is to ensure the coordination and operation of meteorological satellite systems, particularly the Meteosat and Metop satellite programs. These satellite systems provide valuable meteorological data, including observations of cloud cover, temperature, humidity, atmospheric composition, and Earth's radiation. EUMETSAT then processes and distributes this data to meteorological organizations, climate researchers, and other interested parties.
The information gathered from EUMETSAT's satellites plays a vital role in weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and providing early warnings for severe weather events such as cyclones, hurricanes, and thunderstorms. Additionally, the data collected supports research and analysis related to climate change, atmospheric processes, and environmental monitoring.
By facilitating international cooperation in the field of meteorology and operating advanced satellite systems, EUMETSAT significantly contributes to improving our understanding and ability to manage Earth's weather and climate systems.
