Himawari 7

The MTSAT-2 (Multifunctional Transport Satellite) is a multi-functional satellite with a dual purpose: On the one hand, it is an integral part of a next-generation global-scale air traffic safety system comprised of communications, navigation, tracking and air traffic control. The purpose is to improve traffic congestion and safety in the Asia Pacific region. On the other hand, the MTSAT-2 is designed to take on a meteorological mission to capture, collect and deliver meteorological images and/or data. In this capacity it inherits and expands the mission of a previous satellite. All infrared channels provide a spatial resolution of 5.0 km. For the meteorological mission, MTSAT-2 will play a role of a back-up satellite while MTSAT-1R is in operation until 2008. After the commencement of MTSAT-2 operations, MTSAT-1R will be used as a stand-by satellite for the meteorological mission. MTSat 2 was renamed Himawari 7 after launch.