First Satellites To Deploy For A European Space-Based Navigation System

Arianespace, the European Space Agency, and the European Commission announced Monday that the launch of the first two satellites of Europe's global navigation satellite system is planned to take place on October 20th, 2011. This will be the first of a series of Galileo satellite launches to be performed by Arianespace from the CSG, Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana.

Arianespace Soyuz Launch Facility

The announcement of the date of the first launch follows a detailed assessment review, under the chairmanship of the Director General of the European Space Agency, with the participation of Arianespace and industrial prime contractors. This assessment was held at the end of last week and concluded that the space and ground segment components as well as operations will be ready for a launch in October.

The two Galileo satellites will be deployed using a Soyuz launcher. The October launch will mark Soyuz' inaugural flight from its new launch facilities at the CSG.

Jean-Jacques Dordain, Director General of ESA, pointed out the significance of this launch: "The October launch will be a perfect example of European and international cooperation. On one side we will have the first operational Galileo satellites in orbit, resulting from the cooperation between the European Union and ESA. On the other side this launch is the first launch of Soyuz from CSG, a program made possible through the cooperation between ESA and Russia."

"Arianespace is both proud and honored to be contributing to Galileo, this innovative project, reflecting the innovative technologies that are constantly being developed in Europe for the benefit of all citizens," said Jean-Yves Le Gall, Chairman and CEO of Arianespace. "After the successful orbiting of the first two qualification satellites of the constellation, Giove A and Giove B, I would like to thank the European Commission and ESA for having  chosen us again, which is a further recognition of our market leadership. With this launch, we will also be opening a new chapter in our own history, as we start Soyuz operations from the Guiana Space Center. More than ever, we will be able to deliver the full range of launch services expected by our customers from around the world."

FMI: www.arianespace.com