ESA Greenlights Hibidis and SOVA-S Earth Observation Scout Missions

The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced the selection of Hibidis and SOVA-S as its next Earth-observing science Scout missions. These missions, chosen from four competing concepts, will address pressing scientific questions related to biodiversity and atmospheric phenomena. Hibidis, equipped with a hyperspectral imager, will focus on understorey biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, while SOVA-S will investigate the effects of atmospheric gravity waves on the upper atmosphere and thermosphere. The Scout program emphasizes value-added science through miniaturization and the demonstration of new observing techniques, all within an agile and low-cost development process. This approach aligns with the principles of New Space, aiming to accelerate progress and deliver impactful science and technology in a short timeframe. Hibidis and SOVA-S join the existing family of Scouts, including HydroGNSS (launched in November 2025), NanoMagSat, and Tango, each contributing to a broader understanding of Earth's systems. The selection of Hibidis and SOVA-S underscores ESA's commitment to innovative and efficient Earth observation, leveraging small satellite technology to address critical scientific challenges. The DailyOrbitalWire will continue to track the progress of these missions and report on their scientific findings. [EU AI Act Art. 50 Compliant]

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