Galileo G2 reaches key milestone with successful integration of space and ground segments

In September, the Galileo program marked a major achievement with the first successful compatibility test between the space and ground segments of Galileo G2, known as the System Compatibility Test Campaign (SCTC). The satellite, developed by Thales Alenia Space, and the ground control segment, created by GMV, successfully passed the first test at the Thales Alenia Space facilities in Rome, Italy. This confirms the compatibility of the second-generation satellite with its ground infrastructure, an integration that will significantly enhance Galileo’s services both in Europe and globally.

GMV developed the first portable version of the ground segment (GCS) for G2IOV to run a week-long test campaign, including initial communication tests between the satellite and ground segment to verify interface functionality. Following this successful first test with Thales Alenia Space satellites, GMV plans to conduct a similar operation in the coming months with the other Galileo G2 satellite family, led by Airbus Defense and Space. 

GMV delivered this initial test version just over a year after the project’s start, employing Agile methodology and maintaining close collaboration with satellite manufacturers to meet the planned deadline.

In 2023, GMV was awarded a significant contract by the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop the ground control segment for the second-generation Galileo (G2G) In-Orbit Validation (IOV) system. The primary goals of G2G include introducing new services and state-of-the-art technologies, enhancing existing offerings, improving the system’s accuracy and robustness, increasing security, and reducing maintenance costs. These initiatives aim to consolidate and strengthen Galileo’s position in the global market. Currently, Galileo serves over 4 billion users worldwide, providing global positioning, navigation, and timing synchronization services with an accuracy of up to 20 centimeters.