ESA awards contract for two additional Galileo satellites to Thales Alenia Space
What happened
The European Space Agency awarded a contract to Thales Alenia Space to add two satellites to the Galileo Second Generation constellation. This contract is part of an ongoing agreement with ESA, which is acting on behalf of the European Commission. This expansion brings the total number of Thales Alenia Space-built satellites in the constellation to eight.
Why it matters
The contract reinforces Thales Alenia Space's leading role in European space navigation. The combined capabilities of the Galileo and Celeste In-Orbit Demonstration constellations could unlock new applications, such as autonomous cars, trains, and drones, by providing unprecedented positioning accuracy.
Who's involved
- European Space AgencyAwarded the contract for the Galileo satellites.
- Thales Alenia SpaceWas awarded the contract to build and contribute satellites to the constellation.
- European CommissionIs the executive branch of the European Union for which ESA is acting.
- ThalesIs a partner in the joint venture that owns Thales Alenia Space.
- LeonardoIs a partner in the joint venture that owns Thales Alenia Space.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
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The entities involved
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European Space Agency
European organisation dedicated to space exploration
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Thales Alenia Space
European aerospace manufacturer