Galileo Initial Services (2016)

On 15 December 2016, the European Commission officially launched Galileo Initial Services, marking a milestone in Europe's journey toward autonomous satellite navigation. The event, held in the Commission’s Berlaymont building in Brussels, featured a symbolic countdown led by Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič (left) and Commissioner Elżbieta Bieńkowska (centre), who activated Galileo’s transition from testing to operational phase by pressing a ceremonial red button. With 18 satellites in orbit and ground infrastructure in place, Galileo began delivering positioning, navigation and timing services to users worldwide. These services included the free Open Service (OS) and the Search and Rescue Service (SAR). The event was a culmination of years of collaboration among ESA, the European Commission, EUSPA (then GSA) and industry partners.