Galileo launch 14 satellites placed on Ariane 6 rocket

Two Galileo navigation satellites inside the protective ‘nose cone’ of Ariane 6 (known as the fairing) hoisted to the top of the Ariane 6 rocket that will take them to space, on the launch pad at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana, 11 December 2025.

The fairing plays a crucial role as it shields the satellites from the elements and maintains a stable temperature and humidity. It also provides the aerodynamic shape Ariane 6 needs to pierce through Earth’s atmosphere as it thunders toward space. 

The fairing separates during launch, allowing the satellites to begin their journey to medium Earth orbit, 23 222 km above Earth, ready to deliver precise navigation services to billions of users worldwide.