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European Union

EU's Galileo Satellite Navigation System Launches Operational Satellites

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The European Commission has announced the launch of the first two operational satellites of the Galileo satellite navigation system on October 20th. This marks the beginning of a series of launches that will complete the constellation by 2019 and provide initial satellite navigation services in 2014. The Galileo system will provide a highly accurate, guaranteed global positioning service under civilian control and is expected to deliver €60 billion to the European economy over 20 years.

Key Takeaways:

  • The launch of the first two operational satellites of the Galileo system will provide initial satellite navigation services in 2014.
  • The system will be completed by 2019, with the full operational capability phase managed and funded by the European Union.
  • The Galileo system will provide a highly accurate, guaranteed global positioning service under civilian control, making Europe independent in critical technologies such as electricity distribution and telecommunications.
  • The system will generate €60 billion in additional revenues for the industry and public and social benefits over a period of 20 years.
  • Galileo will enable thousands of SMEs and innovators to create and develop products based on the system's infrastructure.
  • The system will also benefit citizens through its services, including satellite navigation for electricity grids, fleet management companies, financial transactions, and shipping industry.

Statistics:

  • 18 satellites will be launched in the initial constellation, providing three early services in 2014/2015.
  • 60 billion euros in additional revenues for the industry and public and social benefits over 20 years.
  • The full operational capability phase of the Galileo programme will be completed by 2019.
  • The European Commission and European Space Agency have signed a delegation agreement, with ESA acting as design and procurement agent on behalf of the Commission.
  • EGNOS (European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service), the precursor to Galileo, has been operational since October 2009.

Sources:

  • European Commission
  • European Space Agency
  • Contify.com
  • Euclid Infotech Pvt. Ltd.

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