New ESA satellite starts operations
Published: May 7, 2008 at 12:51 PM
PARIS, May 7 (UPI) -- The European Space Agency says its GIOVE-B satellite transmitted its first navigation signals Wednesday.
ESA scientists called the event a "truly historic step for satellite navigation since GIOVE-B (Galileo in Orbit Validation Element) is now, for the first time, transmitting the GPS-Galileo common signal using a specific optimized waveform, MBOC (multiplexed binary offset carrier)." That waveform was approved in an agreement signed by the European Union and the United States for their respective systems, Galileo and the future GPS-III.
The 1,100-pound satellite that was launched April 27 is continuing testing for Europe's planned $5.3 billion global positioning system that is to become operational in 2013.
"Now with GIOVE-B broadcasting its highly accurate signal in space we have a true representation of what Galileo will offer to provide the most advanced satellite positioning services, while ensuring compatibility and interoperability with GPS," said Galileo Project Manager Javier Benedicto.
ESA scientists called the event a "truly historic step for satellite navigation since GIOVE-B (Galileo in Orbit Validation Element) is now, for the first time, transmitting the GPS-Galileo common signal using a specific optimized waveform, MBOC (multiplexed binary offset carrier)." That waveform was approved in an agreement signed by the European Union and the United States for their respective systems, Galileo and the future GPS-III.
The 1,100-pound satellite that was launched April 27 is continuing testing for Europe's planned $5.3 billion global positioning system that is to become operational in 2013.
"Now with GIOVE-B broadcasting its highly accurate signal in space we have a true representation of what Galileo will offer to provide the most advanced satellite positioning services, while ensuring compatibility and interoperability with GPS," said Galileo Project Manager Javier Benedicto.
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This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
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