Galileo satellite. Photo: ESA

[Via Satellite 01-30-2014] Galileo, the EU satellite navigation program, and Copernicus, the EU Earth monitoring program, will soon establish Europe’s own satellite navigation system. With the launch of six additional Galileo satellites, and the first launch of the Copernicus satellite scheduled for March, the European version of GPS system is becoming more advanced.

The new Copernicus satellite will also improve maritime security, climate change monitoring and will provide additional support in emergency situations.

“The success of Galileo and Copernicus programs depends on the commitment and support of the space industry and the European Space Agency (ESA). Galileo will start its first operations in 2014. Copernicus is also entering the operational phase. Space and satellite navigation, created in Europe, are inputs for our strategy to reindustrialize the EU. Most importantly, they will open up new business opportunities that Europe needs,” said Antonio Tajani, vice president of the European Commission.