The MOS program consists of a series of satellites for observation of ocean surface, vegetation, land ecology and measurement of stratospheric water vapour and surface temperature. MOS-1 ("Momo-1"), launched in 19 February 1987, was Japan's first experimental Earth observation mission. The follow-up mission is MOS-1b, launched in 7 February 1990. It also carries a microwave radiometer, besides optical sensors.

Operation of MOS-1 ended on March 31,1995 and at the end of April 1996.MOS-1b operation is terminated, after over six years of service, due to degradation of batteries.

Sensors (MOS-1b)

• MESSR (Multispectral Electronic Self-Scanning Radiometer)
• VTIR (Visible and Thermal Infrared Radiometer))
• MSR (Microwave Scanning Radiometer)

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