Elżbieta Bieńkowska, Commissioner for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs, said: “With another successful launch, we are a step closer to Galileo becoming operational, with initial services available later this year. Initial services will allow businesses to prepare, test and work on their applications for a strong market uptake. Our space policy aims to deliver for consumers, businesses and the economy at large.”
Galileo is the EU programme to develop a global satellite navigation system. In-car navigation devices and mobile phones will benefit from the extra accuracy provided by Galileo's positioning and timing information. The satellite navigation data will also help road and rail transport systems become safer and improve the EU response to emergency situations.
Galileo acts as a catalyst for research and development by high-tech companies and the creation of highly qualified jobs. Initial services are expected to be available for users by the end of 2016, starting with the services for search and rescue operation, emergency services and police forces, and freely accessible satellite data on positioning, velocity and timing.
The full Galileo services will be available by 2020, using the Galileo network of 24 satellites complemented by six in orbit spares and their supporting ground stations. Also later in 2016, the Commission will present a Space Strategy for Europe for the next years.
