The history of weather satellites covers a relatively short period of not even 50 years – but today they have become absolutely indispensable for modern life.

The success story of satellite meteorology in Europe is closely linked to two organisations. One is EUMETSAT itself which in just two decades has become one of the worlds pre-eminent meteorological and environmental satellite organisations, serving the interests of Europe's National Meteorological Services, the citizens of Europe and way beyond. The other is the European Space Agency (ESA).

ESA research expertise was required for the conception and development of the first Meteosat back in the 1970s and ESA was also the driving force behind the original formation of EUMETSAT. Over the past 25 years the relationship between the two organisations has evolved and ESA has now become an established and important cooperation partner and procurement agency for EUMETSAT.

To mark our 25th anniversary, we have created the following unique features.

Audio interviews with previous EUMETSAT Directors

We interviewed the first Directors of EUMETSAT, to get their insight into the development of our organisation.

Mr. John Morgan - First Director of EUMETSAT In this interview, Mr. Morgan talks to Neil Fletcher, Communications Manager at EUMETSAT, about the early years of EUMETSAT, from the steps leading up to its formation to its first satellite programmes. Sorry, this audio presentation requires the latest Flash Player. You can download the latest Flash player here.

Dr. Tillmann Mohr - Second Director of EUMETSAT In this interview, Dr. Mohr talks to Claudia Ritsert-Clark, Head of the Communications and Information Services Division, about the introduction of climate mornitoring into EUMETSAT's convention and the development of the EPS and Jason Programmes. Sorry, this audio presentation requires the latest Flash Player. You can download the latest Flash player here.

Dr. Lars Prahm - Third Director-General of EUMETSAT In this interview, Dr. Prahm talks to Neil Fletcher, Communications Manager, about the important milestones during his tenure at EUMETSAT, including the development of the MTG and EPS-SG programmes and the future direction of the organisation. Sorry, this audio presentation requires the latest Flash Player. You can download the latest Flash player here.

Interactive History Timeline

The timeline below illustrates the key milestones on our journey from idea to reality.
Click and drag your mouse below the timeline to scroll along it. Click on a period of interest to see a more detailed timeline covering the key milestones during the chosen period. You can click on a milestone to read it or view images and video associated with it. To view the timeline in fullscreen mode, click the fullscreen button.

EUMETSAT: 25 Years

Foundations for the future
We are proud to present a specially commissioned book, written by Declan Murphy - former head of Met Eireann and previous Chairman of the EUMETSAT Council, providing a detailed factual account of EUMETSAT's entire history covering the founding, development and progress of the organisation from the early 1960s to the present day.

Title: EUMETSAT: 25 Years
Format: PDF
File Size: 21.2 MB

Please click here to view or download.

This publication contains content in both English and French.