The world's most ambitious Earth observation programme, providing free, open, and operational data through six thematic services to address global environmental and security challenges.
Operated by the European Commission in partnership with Member States, ESA, EUMETSAT, ECMWF, and other agencies
Copernicus is the Earth observation component of the European Union's space programme. It delivers accurate, timely, and freely accessible data and information services that help improve environmental management, understand and mitigate the effects of climate change, and ensure civil security. The programme is named after the renowned scientist Nicolaus Copernicus, symbolizing the European commitment to scientific excellence and environmental stewardship.
Comprehensive monitoring across domains with operational, free, and open data
Provides authoritative information about the past, present, and future climate. Supports adaptation and mitigation policies with free access to climate data.
Monitors air quality, greenhouse gases, ozone, solar radiation, and aerosols. Delivers operational forecasts for health, energy, and environmental sectors.
Supports disaster management with early warning systems and rapid mapping for floods, fires, droughts, and humanitarian crises.
Delivers geospatial information on land cover, land use, vegetation, and water cycles. Supports urban planning, agriculture, and environmental protection.
Provides oceanographic data and forecasts for physical, biogeochemical, and biological ocean properties. Supports maritime safety, blue economy, and marine conservation.
Supports European security needs through border surveillance, maritime security, and support to EU external actions. Operated by Frontex, EMSA, and SatCen.
How Copernicus services combine to address real-world challenges
Integrated monitoring for sustainable blue economy
Coastal managers and maritime authorities combine multiple Copernicus services to monitor marine ecosystems, ensure navigation safety, and protect marine protected areas.
Optimizing crop yields and water management
Farmers, agronomists, and policymakers leverage Copernicus data for irrigation planning, drought early warning, and sustainable land management.
The strength of Copernicus lies in the interoperability of its six services. A single application often combines data from multiple sources:
All data and services are freely accessible to anyone, anywhere
24/7/365 continuous monitoring and service delivery
Combines satellite observations with ground-based measurements
Cloud-based platforms with APIs, tools, and user support