SpaceX will be in charge of sending the next 4 satellites of the European Space Agency’s Galileo constellation into space. Elon Musk’s company and the ESA have signed a tentative agreement to carry out these launches in 2024, according to reports The Wall Street Journal.
The choice of SpaceX is directly linked to the delays that the Ariane 6 is experiencing. This rocket, which was planned to launch in 2020, has suffered multiple delays and could debut next year, although there are no guarantees that this will happen.
Thus, also considering that the ESA has already retired the Ariane 5 and that the use of the Russian Soyuz is not an option either due to the war with Ukraine, SpaceX has become the most feasible alternative. In any case, the launch of the Galileo satellites using the American company’s Falcon 9 rocket must still receive approval.
The European Commission and the EU countries members of the European Space Agency are the ones who have to give their approval. The information available indicates that the authorities They would not like ESA to depend on a North American company to launch part of its critical equipment into space. This would largely be due to the confidential technology of the Galileo satellites. Despite this, it is expected that there will be a okay final before the end of the year.
SpaceX will launch 4 ESA Galileo satellites
The tentative agreement between SpaceX and the European Space Agency is for two launches, with two Galileo satellites in each. Although specific dates are not mentioned, the intention is that they will take place next year. As long as they receive the relevant approval, of course.
As we already mentioned, the confidentiality of the technology that powers these devices is one of the points that generates the greatest resentment in Europe. Let us keep in mind that, if the contract with Elon Musk’s company is confirmed, The equipment would be launched from the United States. This would represent a drastic change in logistics and operations, considering that the Ariane 5 rocket flying from French Guiana was previously used.
From ESA they maintain that the dependence on SpaceX will be temporary. Javier Benedictodirector of Satellite Navigation Programs at the European Space Agency, told the WSJ that the idea is to take advantage of the North American firm only to deploy these four Galileo satellites. In addition, he explained that they currently have 10 teams ready to send to space and that keeping them on the ground is not a good option either.
The future of Galileo satellites
The Galileo constellation plays a crucial role for Europe. Not only because it is used to power its own satellite navigation platform, but because it is responsible for managing encrypted communications between the governments of the region. Launching 4 new satellites in 2024 would help strengthen its operationas mentioned.
If the use of SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rockets is approved, Elon Musk’s company would gain more relevance in the European aerospace business and put pressure on its competitors. Let’s keep in mind that, in addition to criticism for the continued delays in the debut of the Ariane 6, ArianeGroup has recently come under scrutiny for ask for more public money for said program.
The French company, made up of Airbus and Safran, would have demanded a significant increase in funds from the countries that make up the European Space Agency. As published The Tribune this month, would have requested 350 million euros annuallyan increase of 150% compared to the 140 million euros it currently receives.