Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labeled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Sentinel satellite mission is one of the European Space Agency’s next-generation earth-observation missions.
Reason (R): There are six Sentinel satellites which provide free data to the user.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

Correct option is B

Explanation of the Correct Option (b): Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A)
Why Assertion (A) is CORRECT:
· The Sentinel missions are part of the Copernicus Programme of the European Space Agency (ESA).
· They represent next-generation Earth observation satellites.
· Designed for monitoring:
· Land
· Oceans
· Atmosphere
· Climate change
· Emergency management
Why Reason (R) is CORRECT:
· Sentinel programme consists of multiple Sentinel missions (Sentinel-1 to Sentinel-6).
· These satellites provide free and open-access data globally.
· This is a key feature of the Copernicus programme.
Why (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A):
· The assertion talks about technological generation and purpose of Sentinel missions.
· The reason talks about number of satellites and data policy.
· Hence, although both are true, (R) does not explain why Sentinel missions are next-generation missions.
Explanation of Other Options
Option (a): Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) explains (A)
· Incorrect because:
· Free data availability does not define next-generation capability.
Option (c): (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
· Incorrect because:
· Sentinel satellites do provide free data.
Option (d): (A) is not correct but (R) is correct
· Incorrect because:
· Assertion (A) is factually correct.
Key Points Related to the Question
· Sentinel satellites belong to ESA’s Copernicus Programme
· Provide high-resolution, multi-sensor Earth observation data
· Data is free and open access
· Used in GIS, Remote Sensing, Climate studies, Disaster management