Odin (satellite)


Odin is a Swedish satellite working in two disciplines: astrophysics and aeronomy. It was named after Odin of Norse mythology. Within the field of astrophysics, Odin was used until the spring of 2007 aiding in the study of star formation. Odin is still used for aeronomical observations, including exploration of the depletion of the ozone layer and effects of global warming.
The satellite is still functioning nominally and is expected to deorbit in 2026.

Overview

The main instrument on Odin is a radiometer using a 1.1 m telescope, designed to be used for both the astronomy and aeronomy missions. The radiometer works at 486–580 GHz and at 119 GHz. The second instrument on board is the OSIRIS.
Odin was developed by the Space Systems Division of Swedish Space Corporation as part of an international project involving the space agencies of Sweden, Finland, Canada and France. Odin was launched on a START-1 rocket on 20 February 2001 from Svobodny, Russia.
In April 2007, astronomers announced that Odin had made the first ever detection of molecular oxygen in interstellar clouds. The operator announced in 2025 that the satellite is expected to burn up in the atmosphere in the second quarter of 2026 and is expected to be operational until then, outliving the expected two year lifetime by 23 years.

Lists

International partners:
Agencies or organizations involved in Odin:
Objectives:
  • Astronomy
  • Aeronomy applications
  • Atmospheric research
  • Stratospheric ozone chemistry
  • Mesospheric ozone science
  • Summer mesospheric science
  • Coupling of atmospheric regions

Results

Examples:
  • Odin has observed water in comets.
  • Odin detected of molecular oxygen in interstellar clouds.
  • Odin observed carbon monoxide in the strato-mesosphere.
  • Odin has studied nitrous oxides in the atmosphere.