MSG (Meteosat Second Generation) features 12 channels
enhanced imaging radiometer (SEVIRI) and the Geostationary Earth Radiation Budget (GERB)
instrument.
The high performance of the new generation is 4 times better than the other ones on the
market and 10 times better than Meteosat of the first
generation.
They will ensure the continuity of current services and supply highly significant
advances. The transmission rate of images is doubled (one image every 15 minutes) and the
number of spectral channels rise from 3 to 12 (including 8 infrared channels), three
allowing for access to comprehensive information on atmospheric physics. Spatial
resolution is also enhanced: MSG is able to discern details down to 1 kilometer in a
visible highresolution channel and 3 kilometers for the other channels. The general
concept is derived from the first generation, but the platform and payload are completely
new.
The satellites are being renamed to Meteosat when they become
operational.
