ATSR instruments have been used to produce infrared images of the Earth at a spatial resolution of one kilometre. The data from these instruments is useful for scientific studies of the land surface, atmosphere, clouds, oceans, and the cryosphere. The first ATSR instrument was launched on board the ERS-1 satellite in July 1991 as part of the ESA Earth Observation Programme. ATSR-2 on board ESA's ERS-2 spacecraft is an enhanced version of the original ATSR instrument, and is equipped with additional 'visible' channels for vegetation monitoring.

The new AATSR (Advanced Along Track Scanning Radiometer) is the latest instrument in the series and is due to be launched on board the Envisat spacecraft in 2000. Largely designed and built in the UK, development of the AATSR instrument has involved a significant international collaboration with the Commonwealth of Australia. Australia's Department of Industry, Science and Resources have supplied several million dollars worth of component systems, via Auspace Ltd. CSIRO is the signatory to the collaborative agreement with the UK Department of Environment, Transport and Regions and to the science management plan. Scientists from the Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO represent Australia on the Science Advisory Group.

For more information:

AATSR Home page

The ATSR Project