Sentinel-1A Mission Concludes After 12 Years of Radar Observation

The European Space Agency (ESA) announced that Sentinel-1A, the inaugural radar satellite of the Copernicus programme, ended its operational phase on 29 June 2026. Launched on 3 April 2014 for a seven-year design life, the spacecraft remained active for over twelve years, delivering its final strip-mode images of western Iceland and Melbourne before entering the disposal phase slated for the northern summer.

European Space Agency

Sentinel-1A carried a C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) that could acquire high-resolution images day and night, regardless of cloud cover. Its launch inaugurated the Copernicus Earth-observation component of the EU space programme, providing an “unblinking radar eye” for monitoring Arctic sea ice, glacier motion, oil spills, floods and other rapid-change phenomena.

European Space Agency

Key dates include launch on 3 April 2014; the 2021 power-system failure of sister satellite Sentinel-1B, after which Sentinel-1A assumed primary radar duties; and the mission’s end on 29 June 2026, with disposal operations to begin in summer 2026. Sentinel-1C and Sentinel-1D are already in orbit, spaced 180° apart.

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at MelbourneEuropean Space Agency

During its extended service, Sentinel-1A produced millions of SAR images that were freely distributed worldwide. The data supported scientific research, climate monitoring, agricultural assessments, maritime security and humanitarian relief. Its all-weather capability proved critical after Sentinel-1B’s loss, preserving Europe’s continuous radar monitoring and reinforcing global Earth-observation networks.

European Space Agency

ESA officials highlighted Sentinel-1A’s pioneering role and its seamless transition to newer assets. Simonetta Cheli expressed confidence that Sentinel-1C and Sentinel-1D will continue the legacy, while Mission Manager Nuno Miranda noted the satellite’s special place, its foundational impact on Copernicus operations, and the upcoming disposal phase.

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at MelbourneEuropean Space Agency

• “As we bid farewell to this remarkable satellite, we celebrate an extraordinary legacy and look forward with confidence as Sentinel-1C and Sentinel-1D carry that legacy into the years ahead,” — Simonetta Cheli, ESA

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at Melbourne

• “Sentinel-1A holds a special place for all of us,” — Nuno Miranda, ESA Sentinel-1 Mission Manager

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at Melbourne

• “As the first satellite of the Copernicus program, it paved the way for new approaches in both operations and science. Over the years, it has weathered several disruptions and challenges,” — Nuno Miranda, ESA Sentinel-1 Mission Manager

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at Melbourne

• “After years of outstanding service, Sentinel-1A has earned a well-deserved retirement.” — Nuno Miranda, ESA Sentinel-1 Mission Manager

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at Melbourne

• “The team is now preparing for the disposal phase, which is expected to begin during the [northern] summer.” — Nuno Miranda, ESA Sentinel-1 Mission Manager

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at Melbourne

Sentinel-1C and Sentinel-1D now provide continuous SAR coverage, maintaining a 180° orbital separation for global revisit. Contracts have been signed to develop the next generation of Sentinel-1 spacecraft, extending Europe’s radar observation capacity beyond the current constellation.

Farewell to Sentinel-1A, with a last look at MelbourneEuropean Space Agency