The latest new generation weather satellite, partly funded by the Met Office, has been successfully launched into space.

Satellite data has revolutionised the way we see the atmosphere. It is a vital tool used by many, including the Met Office, when producing weather forecasts and monitoring the Earth’s climate and oceans.

Last night saw the next phase in the multinational programme of Earth observing satellites when EUMETSAT’s MSG-2 (Meteosat Second Generation) satellite was put into orbit at 2233 GMT.

When operational, the satellite, to be named Meteosat 9, will provide scientists with a continual stream of data.

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