New Belgian satellite ready for space

Proba-V, a European microsatellite, has successfully completed its six-month test phase. The Proba-V (pictured) will now monitor the status of global vegetation until 2015, providing information on, among other situations, crop yields, droughts and desertification.

The Proba-V satellite – which is about the size of a washing machine – was created through a co-operation between the company QinetiQ in Kruibeke, OIP in Oudenaarde and the Mol- based Flemish Institute for Technical Research (Vito). Funding was provided through the Belgian Science Policy Office (Belspo).

After the launch in May at the European Space Agency base in French Guiana, all instruments were evaluated – with positive results. Via a new platform, users can quickly access the images provided by Proba-V. The images are important for research, including in the area of climate change.

www.vito-eodata.be

pictured: Artist's view of the Proba-V satellite