Preparing to unfold Sentinel-1C solar wings

The Copernicus Sentinel-1C satellite is currently undergoing a series of tests at Thales Alenia Space’s plant in Cannes, France. One of the first tests involves the deployment of the satellite’s 10 metre solar wings from stowed configuration. The photograph shows the wing in its folded position.

Sentinel-1C is the third Sentinel-1 satellite to be launched as part of Europe’s Copernicus programme. It will continue the critical task of delivering radar imagery for a wide range of services, applications and science – all of which benefit society.