On 17 December 2025, two new Galileo satellites lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. This was the 14th launch for Europe’s satellite tv for pc navigation operational satellite tv for pc programme, reinforcing Europe’s resilience and autonomy. The flight, VA266, was the primary launch of Galileo satellites on Europe’s latest heavy-lift launcher Ariane 6.
The satellites, designated SAT 33 and SAT 34, separated from the launcher after a flight of just below 4 hours. The launch was declared profitable after acquisition of sign and the affirmation that each satellites are wholesome with their photo voltaic arrays deployed.
“With these new satellites, we strengthen Europe’s world navigation companies – delivering higher precision, reliability and autonomy in house”, affirmed Andrius Kubilius, EU Commissioner for Defence and House.
“Galileo stands because the world’s most correct world navigation satellite tv for pc system – and right now we’ve got elevated its reliability and robustness,” stated Josef Aschbacher, ESA’s Director Basic.
The European House Company was answerable for finishing up the Galileo launch with Arianespace on behalf of the European Fee. The Galileo satellites had been manufactured by OHB, beneath contract with ESA. Now in orbit, the EU Company for the House Programme (EUSPA) brings the satellites into service and oversees their operation.
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