MSG Satellite Bus
Data current as of 2026-07-20.
The MSG bus accounts for 4 cataloged objects, of which 4 are in orbit and 3 are active. Most are built by THALES. The largest operator on this bus is EUMET. The first launched in 2002, the most recent in 2015.
4
In orbit
3
Active
4
Total launched
0
Reentered
MSG launched per year
Still in orbit Click a year to list its satellites.
Typical specifications
Most common values across cataloged MSG satellites.
| Manufacturer | THALES |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Meteorology |
| Launch mass | 2010 kg |
| Dry mass | 1000 kg |
| Length | 2.4 m |
| Diameter | 3.2 m |
| Span | 3.2 m |
| Shape | Cyl |
| Power | Solar cells (body mounted), batteries |
| Propulsion | S400 x2 |
| Design life | 15 years |
| Equipment | SERVI, GERB |
| Typical orbit | 1436 min period, 3° inclination |
Top operators
EUMET 4
Top countries
I-EUM 4
MSG satellites
Track any of them live in KeepTrack.
| Name | NORAD | COSPAR | Owner | Launched | Orbit | Status | Track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| METEOSAT-11 (MSG-4) Meteosat 11 | 40732 | 2015-034A | EUMET | Jul 15, 2015 | 1436 min, 3.3° | Active | ◉ |
| METEOSAT-10 (MSG-3) Meteosat 10 | 38552 | 2012-035B | EUMET | Jul 5, 2012 | 1436 min, 4.7° | Active | ◉ |
| METEOSAT-9 (MSG-2) Meteosat 9 | 28912 | 2005-049B | EUMET | Dec 21, 2005 | 1436 min, 9.4° | Active | ◉ |
| METEOSAT-8 (MSG-1) Meteosat 8 | 27509 | 2002-040B | EUMET | Aug 28, 2002 | 1471 min, 11.3° | Inactive | ◉ |
Frequently asked questions
How many MSG satellites are there?
The catalog lists 4 objects built on the MSG bus. 4 are in orbit and 0 have reentered.
How many MSG satellites are in orbit?
4 MSG objects are currently in orbit, of which 3 carry an active status.
Who builds the MSG bus?
The MSG bus is most commonly built by THALES.
When did the first MSG satellite launch?
The first cataloged MSG satellite launched in 2002, and the most recent in 2015.