NSSDCA/COSPAR ID: 2017-079B
The Galileo satellite navigation system will consist of a total of 30 spacecraft in three planes in medium Earth orbit, which will each be occupied by nine satellites, and with three spares satellites distributed on the three orbital planes. At an altitude of 23,616 kilometers and an inclination of 56 degrees, the system will provide accurate positioning data to users as far north as 75 degrees longitude.
Although similar in design to the American GPS system and the Russian GLONASS navigation network, Galileo-FOC will be under the control of strictly civilian organizations. Galileo is the first joint program to be shared between the European Space Agency and the European Union.
Launch Date: 2017-12-12
Launch Vehicle: Ariane 5
Launch Site: Kourou, French Guiana
Questions and comments about this spacecraft can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office