Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) is excited to announce that the latest additions to the Galileo Satellite constellation, Satellites 29 & 30, are now fully operational in orbit. These satellites, equipped with payloads built by SSTL, were successfully launched earlier this year on a Falcon 9 SpaceX rocket. After reaching their final on-station position 23,222 km above Earth at the end of June, the Mission Control Team conducted necessary testing to ensure the satellites were functioning properly after enduring the rigors of a launch into space.
Following assessments by satellite manufacturer OHB and clock analysis by SSTL, it was determined that the satellites were in good condition. In late August, ESA, OHB, and SSTL confirmed that the satellites were ready for service, receiving the green light from the EU Security Accreditation Board (SAB). The addition of these two satellites to the Galileo system enhances the precision, availability, and reliability of the navigation signal provided by the constellation.
Looking ahead, the next two Galileo satellites are set to launch in the near future from the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. Once these satellites are in orbit, the Galileo system will be one step closer to completing all three orbital planes. Andrew Cawthorne, Managing Director of SSTL, expressed his satisfaction with the successful deployment of the Galileo payloads manufactured by SSTL in Guildford. He highlighted the dedication of the core team involved in supporting the navigation payloads during commissioning and in-orbit operations.
The Galileo project represents SSTL’s largest single contract to date and continues to be a significant aspect of the company’s operations. With each new satellite added to the constellation, the Galileo system strengthens its capabilities in providing accurate and reliable navigation services. The completion of the second orbital plane marks a milestone in the ongoing development of the Galileo system, bringing the project closer to its final stage of deployment.
As SSTL celebrates the successful activation of Galileo Satellites 29 & 30, the company looks forward to the upcoming launches that will further enhance the capabilities of the navigation system. The expertise and dedication of the team at SSTL continue to play a crucial role in the success of the Galileo project, demonstrating the UK’s leadership in satellite technology and innovation on a global scale.
