“We know the drill”: Sentinel-1D begins streamlined simulations training

Written by Copernical Team Tuesday, 16 September 2025 07:35

font size decrease font size increase font size

For over a decade, mission control teams at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) have successfully commissioned and operated most of the Sentinel fleet of satellites. This week, in preparation of the coming launch of Sentinel-1D, mission controllers have begun the simulations of the critical ‘launch and early orbit phase’.

Streamlined simulations for a seasoned team

On 17 September, the control team located at ESA’s operation centre in Darmstadt, Germany, began preparing for the launch and the crucial early-orbit phase. Thanks to their recent experience with Sentinel-1C, the team is expected to complete the simulation campaign more quickly than usual.

“We’re essentially working with the same satellite and the same team as last year,” says Ian Shurmer, Flight Operations Director for Sentinel-1D. “This allows us to streamline several phases of the training and focus on the unique aspects of this launch.”

The team has been augmented by over a hundred experts from flight dynamics, ground stations, software systems, and other specialist areas, along with industry partners who built the satellite and ESA engineers who designed and procured it.

The simulations have been downsized from the usual fifteen or more sessions to eight only, during which mission plans and procedures for both the satellite and ground segment will be rehearsed, reviewed, and refined.