The European Galileo navigation system has two more satellites in orbit, to further increase its reliability, with 30 satellites now in the constellation.

ESA boosts Galileo navigation system constellation

This follows from their launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 at the end of last month.

The European Space Agency highlights the strategic importance of the navigation information: already 10% of the EU’s yearly GDP relies – it says – on satellite navigation, and this is set to increase. “From finding our way, to supporting Search and Rescue activities and providing ultra-precise timestamps for all kinds of institutional and commercial applications, Galileo is integral to our everyday lives.”

PRS
The latest launch took place a few days after new Public Regulated Service (PRS) signals started to be broadcasted.

This encrypted navigation service is specifically designed for authorised governmental users and sensitive applications, contributing to resilience for satellite navigation.

Galileo navigation
Funded by the European Union (EU), Galileo is managed by the European Commission, with the ESA leading the design, development and qualification of the space and ground systems, as well as procuring launches.

It is estimated to be serving over four billion smartphone users around the globe since entering Open Service in 2016.