The European Space Agency (ESA), on behalf of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS), is pleased to announce the release of the updated CEOS Missions, Instruments, and Measurements (MIM) database. This release is based on inputs from CEOS agencies in response to the extensive 2015 survey process. The MIM database is available at http://database.eohandbook.com, and the web version of the handbook is available at http://www.eohandbook.com. As you may know, the CEOS database is the only official, consolidated statement of the Earth observation programmes and plans of the world’s civil space agencies. The database features details of 296 Earth observing satellite missions and 830 instruments, which are currently operating or planned for launch in the next 15 years - funded and operated by around 30 CEOS space agencies worldwide. The database also features details on historical missions with data archives that provide important references for current and future applications - dating back at least 10 years, and longer in some cases. The database is the cornerstone of the efforts of CEOS coordination on gaps and overlaps to optimise global observations in support of key societal needs such as climate change information. The latest edition of the database is current as of October 2015 - making it the most up-to-date and comprehensive statement of governmental Earth observation programmes available. With respect to the previous edition, 37 new mission records have been added, 144 existing records updated, approximately half of the 2014 records. Similarly 41 new instrument records have been added and 164 existing records updated. The CEOS database, and the print handbook, is always keenly anticipated by the space community for its insights into future trends worldwide in EO programmes. New functionality, and integration with other major information sources, make the 2015 version of the MIM the place for information on EO programmes, plans and capabilities and a powerful resource in support of CEOS and GEO objectives. The constantly increasing number of visitors shows the usefulness of sharing this information with the space and non-space communities. Kind regards Ivan Petiteville ESA CEOS Database team