ESA’s forest mapping satellite unfurls its antenna in space

Forest satellite’s big antenna opens up (Image: ESA)

After weeks of careful planning, patience has paid off. ESA’s Biomass satellite has now fully deployed its 12-metre-wide mesh antenna in orbit. This marks the final step in its launch and early operations phase.

Three-Stage Boom Extended before Antenna Unfolding

Before the reflector could open, a 7.5-metre boom was extended. The boom deployment took place over three days in separate stages. Each stage lasted about five minutes and was precisely timed. These deployments aligned with satellite passes over key ground stations.

Stefan Kiryenko from ESA led the antenna’s technical development. He said the antenna was designed to unfold “like an umbrella” above the satellite. This careful approach helped avoid any stress on the satellite body.

Cameras Capture Rare Glimpse of Space Deployment

A camera on board recorded the entire deployment in space. This camera was provided by the Swiss firm MCSE. Michael Fehringer, ESA’s Biomass Project Manager, explained the process.

Before unfolding the antenna, the control system was switched off. This allowed the satellite to ‘float’ freely and avoid stress. Two pyrotechnic devices released the belt that held the folded antenna.

The entire deployment was visible for just 24 minutes. During this time, stations in Inuvik, Svalbard and Kiruna took turns tracking the signal. The team had to wait for another pass to confirm success. The antenna had opened correctly.

Fehringer thanked L3H, Airbus and ESA teams for their efforts. L3H supplied the antenna, while Airbus served as the prime contractor.

Antenna Brings ESA Closer to Forest Carbon Data

The antenna will help track forest carbon across the world. It sends radar pulses to Earth and collects the returned signals. These reflections give scientists data on forest size and carbon content.

Simonetta Cheli, ESA’s Earth Observation Director, called the deployment a key milestone. She said the mission will help scientists better understand carbon flows.

Biomass is ESA’s first mission with a P-band radar in space. It aims to track forest changes and support climate research.

With the antenna now open, ESA plans to wrap up initial checks. The satellite will enter a six-month commissioning phase next.