ESA - Galileo Mission logo.
16 September 2014
The fifth and sixth Galileo satellites have been in a safe state since 28 August, fully under control from ESA’s centre in Darmstadt, Germany, despite having been released on 22 August into lower and elliptical orbits instead of the expected circular orbits.
Galileo orbits viewed from above
The potential of exploiting the satellites to maximum advantage, despite their unplanned injection orbits and within the limited propulsion capabilities, is being investigated.
Galileo orbits viewed side-on
The various ESA specialists, supported by industry and France’s CNES space agency, are analysing different scenarios that would yield maximum value for the programme and safeguard, as much as possible, the original mission objectives.
More detailed analysis, alongside consultations with industry, is under way, checking for a potential ‘improved orbit’ where they could both provide operational services.
Related links:
About satellite navigation: http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/About_satellite_navigation2
How satellite navigation works: http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/How_satellite_navigation_works
Galileo and EGNOS: http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/Galileo_and_EGNOS
The story so far: http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Navigation/The_story_so_far
Graphics, Text, Credit: ESA.
Cheers, Orbiter.ch
