EU launched the first satellite in Galileo satellite system

The European Union (EU) said yesterday it will launch its first satellite in Galileo satellite system in December. The preparations for the launch of the satellite are now basically completed.

Model of Galileo satellite system

The satellite is named Giove, intended to be launched on a Soyouz rocket from the Baikonour space center, according to a press release from the Council of Europe. After Giove, a second satellite will also be launched in the spring of 2006.

These first two satellites can help test the performance of key technologies and provide the necessary data for the operating environment of the group of satellites in the Galileo satellite system. Next, in 2008, the agency will continue to launch 2 more satellites.

Galileo is Europe's satellite navigation program. It is said to be a competitor to the US global positioning system and Russia's Glonass system.

T.VY ( According to Xinhua )