Mission of Earth Observation Satellite Sentinel-2A Extended for Another Year
The mission of the Earth observation satellite Sentinel-2A has been extended for one more year. This creates new opportunities for Dutch businesses, governments, and research institutions. The NSO was one of the initiators of the extension and will strengthen the use of Sentinel-2 data and products through a national support programme.
Sentinel-2A was launched in 2015 and is part of the European Copernicus programme. With this satellite's observations, we can monitor deforestation, make agriculture more efficient, and improve the quality of natural areas.
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© Credit: European Union. Contains modified Copernicus Sentinel data 2025
By now, the satellite has two successors in space: Sentinels 2B and 2C. Together, they ensure the quality and continuity of these specific applications. But what if we don't turn off Sentinel-2A yet and let it continue for another year? Are the extra observations worth the investment?
Last year, the NSO asked the European Commission to answer this question. The result: yes, the benefits are greater. Keeping the satellite in space for one more year provides 30% more data. This means a higher chance of cloud-free observations, earlier detection of changes in our landscape, and better computer models that use Sentinel-2 data.
Continuity is Key
"More data means we can deliver better products and services," says Arjen Vrielink from Satelligence. His company uses Sentinel-2 data to detect deforestation and measure above-ground biomass, which can be used to calculate CO2 emissions. Just as important is the extra guarantee of data continuity. "The Sentinel-2A satellite works so well that its mission is extended. That builds trust with our clients. They know they can rely on this Earth observation system."
The Dutch company eLeaf uses Sentinel-2 data to measure evaporation worldwide, helping research on water use, water management, and agriculture. Jelle Degen from eLeaf is also excited about the mission extension: "We provide global evaporation data through the WaPOR database. More data means a better product, especially in areas where it often rains. Every extra observation increases the chance of a useful cloud-free image."
© Kees van Duijvendijk, NSO
“Make Something Great”
Companies like eLeaf and Satelligence show that it is possible to make money with free data from European Earth observation satellites. Still, the use of this satellite data in the Netherlands is limited, says Kees van Duijvendijk from NSO: "Research institutions and universities often know how to use the data well. But Earth observation data also offers many opportunities for governments, NGOs, and businesses. It can help with issues like soil subsidence, water management, agriculture, monitoring landscape changes, and food security."
The extension of Sentinel-2A's mission aligns with the start of the National Collaboration Program (NCP) for the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service. In 2025, the NSO will promote the use of this service, which mainly relies on Sentinel-2 data, with various activities.
"Our message is simple," says Van Duijvendijk. "Explore what Sentinel-2 and the Land Monitoring Service can do for you. Be curious, try something new, and come up with a great application for the Netherlands and beyond. Satellite data is perfect for global applications. If you have ideas, come to us. The NSO has the knowledge and network to help develop good ideas further."