The last four Galileo satellites of the second FOC (Full Operational Capability) batch are scheduled for launch on 25 July at 11:25 GMT (13:25 CEST, 08:25 local time) from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on an Ariane 5 rocket, designated Flight VA244 by Arianespace.

Protective fairing ready to be lowered over Galileo satellites 23–26 atop their Ariane 5

This launch will be the third and last one using a customised Ariane 5 ES launcher, placing the next four Galileo satellites into the last of the three Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) circular orbits at an altitude of 23 222 km.

It will also mark Europe’s 99th Ariane 5 flight. The four new Galileo satellites will bring the constellation from 22 to 26 satellites – further improving Galileo’s positioning accuracy and global reach. ESA and its Galileo partners have deployed 22 Galileo satellites in just over four years.

The Galileo system began Initial Services on 15 December 2016, and more than 100 million commercial devices are using Galileo today.

Media are invited to take part in an audio briefing on 24 July at 16:30 GMT (18:30 CEST, 13:30 local time) to learn the latest on the status of the system. Journalists interested in joining the briefing should request access information via email to ESA’s Media Relations Office at: Brigitte.Kolmsee@esa.int by 23 July at the latest.

Follow the launch

ESA TV
In cooperation with Arianespace, ESA TV provides broadcasters with free live videostream of the launch. More information at: http://www.esa.int/esatv/Television

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