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The CSO-3 Earth observation satellite developed by Airbus for the French armed forces was successfully launched on the first commercial flight of Ariane 6. With this launch, Airbus is demonstrating its ability to provide high-resolution geoinformation and, together with European partners, to renew significant space capabilities.
Successful launch from the European spaceport
Arianespace has successfully launched the CSO-3 satellite, built by Airbus, from the European spaceport in Kourou. Airbus’ Alain Fauré stressed that this success shows how Airbus offers its government customers the best resolution and an agile network for reconnaissance and security. The launch marks the first commercial deployment of the Ariane 6, a significant step for the European space industry.
CSO-3 strengthens French defense capabilities
CSO-3 is the third satellite in the CSO fleet to complement the reconnaissance capabilities of the French armed forces. As part of the MUSIS program, it will provide high-resolution geoinformation together with CSO-1 and CSO-2. The system is impressive due to its agility and security, which is of interest for the re-coverage of large areas and precise identification.
Cooperation with European partners
Airbus worked closely with Thales Alenia Space, which supplied the high-quality optical instrument for the CSO-3. The ground segment, developed on behalf of the French DGA, also facilitates the secure distribution of information among European partners. Lionel Suchet of CNES expressed satisfaction with the success of this mission, which demonstrates European and French excellence in the space sector.
Technology and its advantages
The CSO satellites offer exceptionally agile image acquisition capabilities. Their secure ground control enables effective use day and night. CSO-3, CSO-1 and CSO-2 differ in their orbital altitude and image resolution, which allows for a wide range of uses for France and its partners. The high stability of the system guarantees the highest image quality even for complex tasks.
Airbus Defence and Space is at the forefront of the aerospace industry and is known for its technological innovations, international cooperation and its remarkable contributions to the security and autonomy of nations. The recent launch of CSO-3 once again proves its leading role in the renewal of military space capabilities.
Successful Ariane 6 launch thanks to Airbus
Airbus announces that it has played a key role in the successful launch of Ariane 6, which took place as part of the strategic CSO project. International cooperation led by the French Defence Procurement Agency has led to the creation of advanced satellite structures involving several European countries.
Airbus’s participation in the CSO contract
Airbus was awarded the CSO contract by CNES in late 2010, on behalf of the French procurement authority DGA. This contract included an option for a third satellite, which was activated when Germany joined the program in 2015. The cooperation underlines Europe’s strategic importance in the field of defense technology and Airbus’ contribution to international projects.
International involvement in Ariane 6
Airbus employees from Spain and the Netherlands made significant contributions to the Ariane 6 programme. Spain provided key carbon fibre reinforced structures, electronics and the vast majority of the cabling. The Dutch partners provided the thrust frames for the Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci engines, highlighting Europe-wide expertise and commitment to space programmes.
The MUSIS programme as a strategic initiative
After no agreement was reached in 2010 on the MUSIS initiative to replace existing systems, France launched the national MUSIS programme under the leadership of the DGA. Eight countries have now joined the CSO community through bilateral agreements, underlining the growing European cooperation in defence and space projects. This cooperation enables access to German SARah and Italian CSG satellites, providing strategic capabilities for situational awareness and crisis management.
Diverse application possibilities of CSO resources
The CSO satellites provide valuable resources for situational awareness, strategic reconnaissance and support for crisis prevention and operational planning. The combined use of optical space components and their ground segments expands the capabilities for strategic planning and crisis prediction. These developments mark a significant step forward in the European defense strategy and demonstrate the potential of cooperation between several nations.
Airbus is a leading provider of aerospace solutions with a global presence. The company relies on innovation and international partnerships to develop next-generation technologies. With projects such as the Ariane 6 launch, Airbus is continuously committed to a sustainable future and technological progress in Europe.
