Europe just launched 2 new Galileo satellites on Ariane 6
Europe pulled off a milestone launch on Wednesday, July 9, 2024, sending two Galileo navigation satellites (SAT 33 and SAT 34) into orbit using the Ariane 6 rocket from French Guiana.
It's the first time Galileo has hitched a ride on Ariane 6, marking only the rocket's fifth mission so far.
After about four hours in space, both satellites are now getting checked out before they join the rest of the constellation.
Why does this matter for Europe?
By using its own heavy-lift rocket, Europe is cutting back on relying on non-European launchers and boosting its independence in space tech.
Over the next three months, these satellites will climb up to their final spot—about 23,000km above Earth—where they'll link up with other Galileo satellites.
What do these new satellites do?
Once fully online, SAT 33 and SAT 34 will help make location and timing services even more accurate worldwide.
This launch shows Europe is doubling down on building better navigation systems for everyone who relies on GPS-style tech.