ARGOS-4 Launch

NOAA is preparing for the launch of its latest contribution to the Argos worldwide Data Collection System, the Argos-4 instrument, hosted onboard General Atomics’ GAzelle satellite. Under a joint agreement between NOAA and the French Space Agency, Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales (CNES), Argos-4 will fly on a polar orbiting satellite that is scheduled to launch in October 2022. 

Once in orbit, Argos-4 will join a network of other Argos instruments onboard other polar orbiting satellites to collect a variety of data from both stationary and mobile transmitters around the world. This vital information helps provide a better understanding of Earth’s physical and biological environment, including its weather and climate, biodiversity and ecosystems, as well as assist with maritime security, offshore pollution, and humanitarian assistance. Information gathered via the Argos system also enables industries to comply with environmental protection regulations.