Third COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation X-band SAR Satellite Successfully Launched into Orbit

The third satellite of the COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation (CSG) constellation, developed by Thales Alenia Space and jointly managed by the Italian Space Agency and the Italian Ministry of Defense, has been successfully placed into orbit. The launch took place from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, United States, utilizing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. This milestone marks another step in strengthening Italy’s advanced radar observation capabilities in space.

Credit: Thales Alenia Space

Since the introduction of the COSMO-SkyMed program in 2007, the constellation has been a critical source of radar imagery for multiple sectors. Over the years, approximately 4.3 million images have been collected and archived, supporting environmental monitoring, territorial management, security operations, and emergency response. 

The system has also played a vital role within the European Copernicus program, where its data contributes to the Emergency Rapid Mapping service operated by e-GEOS. This service provides satellite-based maps of disaster-stricken or crisis-affected regions within hours, ensuring rapid situational awareness for humanitarian and civil protection missions.

The deployment of the third Second Generation satellite ensures continuity of Synthetic-Aperture Radar (SAR) services while simultaneously enhancing the constellation’s overall performance. By employing advanced engineering solutions and state-of-the-art technologies, the new satellite strengthens image resolution and expands coverage capacity. With three satellites now active, the Second Generation system is gradually replacing the first-generation constellation, which originally consisted of four satellites, two of which remain operational.

The evolution toward the Second Generation configuration is designed to deliver superior operational standards compared to its predecessor. Once the full complement of four satellites is in orbit, the system will significantly broaden its application range. The upgraded constellation, together with its modernized ground segment, is establishing new benchmarks in radar-based Earth observation, offering improved accuracy, higher-quality imagery, and more adaptable services for diverse users.

COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation Key Features

The COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation constellation represents a major advancement in Earth observation technology, employing sophisticated X-band Synthetic Aperture Radar with phased array antenna systems. Compared to its predecessor, the new generation delivers higher transmission speeds, expanded onboard storage, and sharper imaging capabilities, achieving resolutions down to one meter in Spotlight mode. 

Designed for both civilian and military purposes, the system integrates multi-polarization options—single, dual, or quad—providing versatile data for applications ranging from defense operations to disaster response. With four satellites planned, the constellation ensures continuity of service while enhancing precision and global monitoring capacity.

The orbital configuration places the satellites in a circular sun-synchronous dawn-dusk orbit at approximately 619 kilometers altitude. This positioning allows consistent illumination conditions, maximizing imaging efficiency and reliability across diverse geographic regions. The payload capacity reaches up to 1,200 kilograms, supported by a power output of 3,500 watts, enabling sustained high-performance radar operations and data handling.

The system architecture is structured to serve dual-use objectives, with funding provided jointly by the Italian Space Agency and the Ministry of Defence. This arrangement ensures that both civil and military stakeholders benefit from the constellation’s advanced capabilities. The ground segment has been modernized to integrate seamlessly with the satellites, expanding operational flexibility and supporting rapid data distribution to end users.

Imaging versatility is a defining feature of the constellation. Spotlight modes (S2A, S2B, S2C) deliver fine detail for targeted observation, while Stripmap and ScanSAR modes provide broader coverage for regional and global monitoring. These imaging options, combined with polarization diversity, allow tailored data acquisition suited to maritime surveillance, cartography, agricultural monitoring, natural resource exploration, and risk management.

The constellation’s continuity with the first generation COSMO-SkyMed system is a critical aspect of its design. While maintaining compatibility with earlier infrastructure, the second generation introduces significant improvements in image quality, precision, and service adaptability. This ensures that existing users experience a seamless transition while gaining access to enhanced performance.

Data handling capabilities have been substantially upgraded. Faster space-to-ground transmission rates and larger onboard storage capacity allow for more efficient collection and dissemination of imagery. These improvements reduce latency in delivering critical information, which is vital for time-sensitive operations such as disaster monitoring and security missions.

The constellation is nearing completion, with the third satellite already deployed and the fourth scheduled to finalize the system. Once fully operational, the four-satellite network will provide continuous coverage and reinforce Italy’s position as a leader in advanced radar-based Earth observation.

Applications of the COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation extend across defense, security, and civilian sectors. Military users gain enhanced situational awareness and reconnaissance capabilities, while civilian agencies employ the system for environmental monitoring, resource management, and emergency response. The dual-use nature of the constellation underscores its strategic importance, offering a comprehensive tool for global observation and risk mitigation.

Written by Henry Wan

Henry Wan is an independent defense journalist with over 14 years of experience reporting on military affairs and security issues. He has covered defense strategies, military technology, and geopolitical developments with a consistent focus on accuracy, independence, and a comprehensive understanding of global security matters.