The European Space Agency, Arianespace and the European Commission announced that the launch of the first two satellites of Europe’s global navigation satellite system is planned to take place on October 20.

This will be the first of a series of Galileo satellite launches by Arianespace from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.

The announcement follows a detailed review held on May 12, under the chairmanship of the Director General of the European Space Agency and with the participation of Arianespace and industrial prime contractors, which concluded that the space and ground elements will be ready for a launch in October.

The two Galileo satellites will be deployed using a Soyuz launcher. The October launch will mark the inaugural Soyuz flight from its new launch facilities in French Guiana, built in the framework of a programme of the European Space Agency. 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 EU and ESA.

“On the other side, this is the first launch of Soyuz from French Guiana, a programme made possible through the cooperation between ESA and Russia. Arianespace is both proud and honoured to be contributing to 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 chief executive officer of Arianespace.

The definition, development and In-Orbit Validation phases were carried out by ESA and co-funded by ESA and the European Community. (Sources: AFP, ESA)