AAC Clyde Space welcomes EUMETSAT green light for EPS-Sterna
- Satellite Evolution Group
- Jan 13
- 1 min read
AAC Clyde Space welcomes the decision by the EUMETSAT Council to give the green light to the EUMETSAT Polar System - Sterna (EPS-Sterna). As announced by EUMETSAT, the programme has now secured the backing of 29 of EUMETSAT's 30 Member States and is confirmed as a mandatory mission. As a result, all programme activities are authorised to start.
With the programme now approved, development activities will proceed in line with EUMETSAT's established framework. ESA will act as procurement agency for the space segment on behalf of EUMETSAT. Industry suppliers, including AAC Clyde Space, participate through ESA-led procurement processes following established procedures.
"With EPS-Sterna now approved, the programme moves from planning into the implementation phase. We have been preparing for this decision, and are well positioned to contribute as the programme moves forward," says Luis Gomes, CEO of AAC Clyde Space.
The core instrument in the EPS-Sterna constellation is the advanced microwave radiometer developed by AAC Clyde Space's subsidiary AAC Omnisys in Gothenburg and first flown on the Arctic Weather Satellite (AWS) mission. ESA and European meteorological institutions have confirmed the instrument's strong performance, including the novel 325 GHz channel, which enables measurements through cloud, rain and snow.
In February 2025, AAC Clyde Space announced an order from prime contractor OHB Sweden to procure long lead-time instrument components for the EPS-Sterna programme as part of early programme preparations.
This is a strong step forward for European weather and climate monitoring. Securing approval from almost all member states and moving EPS-Sterna into implementation really shows confidence in the mission. It’s impressive to see AAC Clyde Space and AAC Omnisys playing such a central role, especially with the microwave radiometer already proven on the AWS mission. The ability to measure through cloud, rain, and snow using the 325 GHz channel sounds like a real game changer. Progress like this feels exciting in the same way steady upgrades keep subway surfers fresh—solid tech, well tested, and ready to scale.