For its ninth launch of the year, and the sixth Ariane 5 liftoff from the Guiana Space Center (CSG) in French Guiana during 2016, Arianespace will orbit four more satellites for the Galileo constellation.
This mission is being performed on behalf of the European Commission under a contract with the European Space Agency (ESA).
For the first time, an Ariane 5 ES version will be used to orbit satellites in Europe’s own satellite navigation system. At the completion of this flight, designated Flight VA233 in Arianespace’s launcher family numbering system, 18 Galileo spacecraft will have been launched by Arianespace.
Arianespace is proud to deploy its entire family of launch vehicles to address Europe’s needs and guarantee its independent access to space.
Galileo, an iconic project for Europe
Galileo is a European initiative to develop a new global satellite navigation system. Under civilian control, it will offer a guaranteed, high-precision positioning service and will end Europe’s dependence on the American GPS system.
The Galileo constellation will comprise a total of 24 operational satellites, along with spares, with 14 already orbited by Arianespace.
Galileo is funded by the European Union. It features innovative technologies developed in Europe for the benefit of all citizens.