Proba-2

Proba-2 was a secondary payload included on the launch of the SMOS mission, the Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity Earth Explorer.

Satellite Captures Solar Eclipse from Space | Universe Today 2010

The recently launched Proba-2 satellite was able to observe the annular solar eclipse on January 15, 2010, with stunning results.

Satellite Captures Solar Eclipse from Space | Universe Today 2010

Proba-2 is one of the smallest satellites launched.

Satellite Captures Solar Eclipse from Space | Universe Today 2010

The other satellite piggybacking on the SMOS mission launch is the suitcase-sized Proba-2, part of a series of missions in the ESA's General Support Technology Program to test out new technology in space for further development on other ESA missions.

Two ESA Satellites Launch Successfully | Universe Today 2009

Proba-2 is carrying a digital sun sensor, a high-precision magnetometer, and dual frequency GPS space receiver among other instruments for a Belgian study of solar physics and Czech study of plasma physics.

Two ESA Satellites Launch Successfully | Universe Today 2009

SMOS will orbit at 760 km (472 miles) above the Earth, and Proba-2 at 725 km (450 miles).

Two ESA Satellites Launch Successfully | Universe Today 2009

The Rockot launch vehicle was carrying both the Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity SMOS satellite, and the Proba-2 satellite.

Two ESA Satellites Launch Successfully | Universe Today 2009

Proba-2 will test out various instruments, including a small wide angle optical camera, and instruments for monitoring the plasma environment in orbit and the Sun's corona.

Two ESA Satellites Launch Successfully | Universe Today 2009

SMOS, once calibrated, will reach full operational status in about six months, and Proba-2 will become fully operation in two months.

Two ESA Satellites Launch Successfully | Universe Today 2009

UPDATE: Information about both SMOS and the Proba-2 satelite are on ESA Television.

Two ESA Satellites Launch Successfully | Universe Today 2009