Satellite is working

Date: 24/2/2006

Source: ITS International

The new GIOVE A satellite, launched late in 2005, is said to be performing well and has passed all its initial technical checks. The satellite forms the first link in the new Galileo global navigation system for Europe. Key systems such as the satellite's attitude control unit, which ensures the satellite is pointing in the right direction are said to be functioning well. Further testing of the communications equipment has still to be carried out but all the satellite functions tested so far have performed 'flawlessly' according to reports.