Ariane 6 is set for its first commercial launch on February 26, deploying the CSO-3 satellite, part of the MUSIS initiative for Earth observation. Weighing 3.5 tons, CSO-3 enhances military intelligence capabilities with ultra-high-resolution imaging in visible and infrared spectrums. Designed by Airbus Defence and Space, these satellites aim to improve response times for defense operations, while concerns about privacy are addressed by assurances of military-only use.
Ariane 6’s Historic Launch
In a remarkable achievement, Ariane 6 is gearing up for its inaugural commercial flight, set to deploy the CSO-3 satellite into orbit. Originally scheduled for 2022, the launch faced delays due to the rocket’s design phase, but is now slated for February 26, at 1:24 PM local time (5:24 PM Paris time). The satellite will be positioned at an altitude of 800 kilometers.
Introducing the CSO-3 Satellite
The CSO-3, which stands for ‘optical space component’, is the newest asset in the MUSIS (Multinational Space-based Imaging System) initiative. This program is centered around a trio of satellites dedicated to Earth observation for defense and security. Managed by the General Directorate of Armament (DGA) and the National Centre for Space Studies (CNES), these satellites support the Space Command (CDE) of the Air and Space Force, succeeding the retired Helios 2 system from 2021. According to CNES, ‘The system is engineered to ensure the fastest responsiveness, optimizing the time between a request and the acquisition of intelligence, while also ensuring timely data dissemination to end-users.’ Notably, this system features an innovative capability for autonomous orbit control.
Weighing in at 3.5 tons, the satellites crafted by Airbus Defence and Space France are designed to gather precise intelligence for the French military. The CSO-3 aims to enhance coverage and boost the reliability of the information collected. As CNES elaborates, ‘The payload of the CSO satellites enables the capture of ultra-high-resolution images in both visible and infrared spectrums, available day and night, across various imaging modes to address diverse requirements.’ The French Ministry of Defense adds that ‘this state-of-the-art technology allows for capturing more images of the same geographic area in a single pass.’
Chief Armament Engineer Yann, who oversees the Musis/CSO program at the DGA, describes these satellites as ‘giant cameras’ capable of capturing images from any location on Earth, regardless of the time, utilizing infrared technology. It’s essential to note that while CSO-1 and CSO-3 boast a broader photography radius, CSO-2 operates at a lower orbit, providing greater precision.
The data collection objectives are extensive, aiding in ‘better understanding global crises for swift action and providing intelligence to support military operations,’ as explained by Lieutenant Colonel René, who heads the satellite observation capability office at the Space Command. He further notes that this information is crucial for developing the necessary maps for the evolution of ground forces.
This wide-ranging capability raises concerns about potential privacy infringements, particularly regarding the monitoring of civilian targets. Nonetheless, Lieutenant Colonel René assures that the CSOs are strictly ‘operated by military personnel for military operations, and nothing beyond that.’