Galileo: how it works

Date: Tue, Oct 09, 2012 | 06:30 - 06:45 GMT | 08:30 - 08:45 CEST

Type: ESA TV Exchange

Format: 16:9

Galileo will use the most accurate atomic clock in space to provide the most accurate positioning services. In fact time is the key for satellite navigation systems.

The launch of the second pair of Galileo satellites, set for October 12, continues the building of Europe's satellite navigation system with the In-orbit Validation phase.

New technologies needed for satellite Navigation have already been demonstrated with two precursor satellites GIOVE-A & B.

At the heart of each Galileo satellite are four atomic clocks which will ensure that users on Earth know their position to within a metre.

These ultra-precise clocks must all beat in rhythm, rigorously synchronized with the ground network of control stations. That is why Galileo has been described as "one vast space clock".

This A & B-Roll explains how the Galileo system will work, with explanations from Javier Benedicto, Galileo Project Manager at the European Space agency, and his colleague Didier Faivre, Director of Satellite Navigation Programmes at ESA.

The B-Roll includes a vivid animation showing in 3D how the system will operate. Interviews are in English, French, and Spanish.

More backgroud information can be found on: http://www.esa.int/esaNA/index.html

Script:
EbS88320.doc

Satellite Parameters:

Eutelsat 9A at 9°E, transponder 59, downlink frequency 11900.1 horizontally polarised, symbol rate 27,500 FEC 2/3.