The earth observation mission ENVISAT (Environmental Satellite) of the European Space Agency ESA evolved from the polar platform of the Columbus program. It is so far the largest European satellite in operation and has the goal of monitoring the entire Earth System (lithosphere - hydrosphere - atmosphere - cryosphere - biosphere). ENVISAT is equipped with ten instruments, including three atmosphere sensors. ENVISAT was launched into earth orbit from Kourou with an Ariane 5 rocket on March 1, 2002. Since this time it has successful completed over 35,000 orbits. Originally designed for a mission life of five years, the ENVISAT mission was extended to 2012. The end of the mission was being declared on May 09, 2012.
