US EditionSuccessful Launch of 2 Galileo Satellites to Strengthen Global Navigation System
The 14th Galileo launch enhances Europe’s navigation with two satellites confirmed healthy and operational, strengthening autonomy and resilience, officials said.
- On December 17, 2025, two Galileo satellites lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, placed into orbit by Ariane 6 .
- The European Space Agency carried out the launch with Arianespace on behalf of the European Commission, marking the 14th launch for Europe’s satellite navigation operational programme.
- Mission VA266 was the fifth Ariane 6 flight, using the Ariane 62 two-booster setup, and SAT-33 and SAT-34 separated three hours and 55 minutes after liftoff into medium Earth orbit at 22,922 kilometers.
- ESA declared mission success after signal acquisition and health checks, with Josef Aschbacher saying Galileo’s reliability increased; Andrius Kubilius affirmed EUSPA will bring the satellites into service.
- Manufactured by OHB under contract with ESA, the new satellites bolster Europe’s industrial role in Galileo and support the programme’s strategic autonomy and technological sovereignty goals.
11 Articles
11 Articles
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Galileo: the journey of satellites 33 and 34
00:05:30 On 17 December 2025, two new Galileo satellites lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. This was the 14th launch for Europe’s satellite navigation operational satellite programme, reinforcing Europe’s resilience and autonomy. The flight, VA266, was the first launch of Galileo satellites on Europe’s newest heavy-lift launcher Ariane 6. The satellites, designated SAT 33 and SAT 34, separated from the launcher after a flig…
Galileo’s first Ariane 6 launch strengthens Europe’s autonomy
Europe has taken significant steps in its space capability and strategic resilience with the successful launch of two Galileo satellites aboard an Ariane 6 rocket The mission marks the first time Europe’s flagship navigation system has flown on the new-generation launcher, reinforcing Europe’s independent access to space and the long-term robustness of its satellite navigation services. A milestone launch from French Guiana The launch took place…
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