ASI and Thales Alenia Space Partner with NASA on Thermal Infrared Earth Observation Mission

ASI and Thales Alenia Space Partner with NASA on Thermal Infrared Earth Observation Mission

(IN BRIEF) The Italian Space Agency and Thales Alenia Space have signed a contract for the implementation of NASA’s Surface Biology and Geology – Thermal Infrared (SBG-TIR) mission, aimed at advancing Earth observation technologies and addressing global challenges like climate change. This collaboration will provide essential data for ecological and geological studies and enhance the monitoring of ecosystems, water resources, and environmental phenomena.

(PRESS RELEASE) ROME, 22-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The Italian Space Agency (ASI) and Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), have officially signed a contract to implement NASA’s Surface Biology and Geology – Thermal Infrared (SBG-TIR) Earth Observation mission. The mission is a joint effort involving ASI, NASA, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to advance the understanding of biological and geological processes on Earth’s surface. This collaboration follows an agreement signed in 2023 between ASI and NASA and marks a significant milestone in the partnership between the two agencies.

The SBG-TIR mission aims to enhance global efforts in climate, ecological, and geological research by providing radiometric and multispectral measurements of terrestrial and aquatic emissions. These data will be critical in supporting practical applications, including food security, water management, and addressing climate change. The mission will focus on collecting detailed observations using advanced technologies, including the thermal infrared (TIR) radiometer provided by NASA and the VIS-NIR camera provided by ASI. Together, these instruments will monitor ecosystems, water resources, and phenomena such as wildfires and volcanic eruptions, offering valuable insights for scientific communities worldwide.

Collaboration and Technological Integration

Thales Alenia Space will take on a critical role in the integration of the SBG-TIR satellite, adapting the PRIMA-S platform to accommodate a spectrometer specifically for thermal infrared observation. The company will also oversee testing to ensure the mission’s success. Additionally, the satellite will feature the VIREO instrument, developed by Leonardo in collaboration with ASI, which will capture visible and near-infrared spectrum images. The PRIMA-S platform, derived from the HE-R1000 (High Efficiency Radar) solution, is part of Thales Alenia Space’s diverse Earth observation product lines, which include both radar and optical satellites.

“The signing of this contract is a major milestone in our ongoing collaboration with NASA,” said Teodoro Valente, President of the Italian Space Agency. “It reflects our shared commitment to advancing Earth observation technologies and addressing global challenges such as climate change. By combining the capabilities of our COSMO-SkyMed and PRISMA satellites with thermal infrared data, we will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the planet’s condition, enabling us to make meaningful contributions toward a sustainable future.”

A Partnership Focused on Innovation and Global Impact

“We are proud to play a central role in this important mission, alongside NASA and JPL. This cooperation enhances Italy’s leadership in Earth observation, providing valuable scientific and practical applications that will contribute to more efficient resource management and a better understanding of global phenomena,” said Giampiero Di Paolo, Deputy CEO and Senior Vice President of Observation, Exploration, and Navigation at Thales Alenia Space. “This contract also highlights the versatility of the PRIMA-S platform and its adaptability for various types of missions in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Middle Earth Orbits.”

Under the terms of the agreement, the Italian Space Agency will manage the overall system, including payload integration and launch operations. NASA will be responsible for integrating the TIR instrument, which consists of the OTTER sensor provided by NASA and the VIREO sensor developed by Leonardo.

About Thales Alenia Space

Thales Alenia Space has over 40 years of experience in delivering innovative solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, and science. The company designs satellite-based systems for both government and private industries, helping to monitor the planet, enhance resource management, and explore space. With 8,600 employees across 16 sites in Europe, Thales Alenia Space reported consolidated revenues of approximately €2.2 billion in 2023. As a part of the Space Alliance, which includes Telespazio, the company is committed to advancing space technologies for a more sustainable future on Earth.

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SOURCE: Thales