GMV reinforces satellite expertise with new Galileo Operations Center in Madrid

Written by Copernical Team Friday, 22 December 2023 10:51

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Madrid, Spain (SPX) Dec 21, 2023

In a significant step for Europe's satellite navigation capabilities, GMV, the main contractor for the Galileo program's ground control segment, has recently inaugurated a replica of the Galileo operations room at its Madrid headquarters. This new facility mirrors the actual control centers of the European Union's premier satellite navigation system, Galileo, enabling advanced simulation and tes

GMV reinforces satellite expertise with new Galileo Operations Center in Madrid
by Hugo Ritmico
Madrid, Spain (SPX) Dec 21, 2023

In a significant step for Europe's satellite navigation capabilities, GMV, the main contractor for the Galileo program's ground control segment, has recently inaugurated a replica of the Galileo operations room at its Madrid headquarters. This new facility mirrors the actual control centers of the European Union's premier satellite navigation system, Galileo, enabling advanced simulation and testing of satellite operations.

This development is a testament to GMV's longstanding commitment to the Galileo program. For over two decades, GMV has been a pivotal contributor to all stages of Galileo, significantly influencing the growth and advancement of the European Union's civilian satellite navigation and positioning system. The establishment of this operations room marks a new chapter in GMV's role as a global leader in satellite navigation technologies.

The primary function of this novel facility is to facilitate the simulation of satellite operations in an environment identical to that of Galileo's system control centers. This enables the GMV team to effectively maintain and deploy operational versions of the ground segment, develop services, and test new technologies. Notably, these technologies aim to enhance existing services, bolster system robustness, improve network security and key management, and reduce system maintenance costs.

A notable aspect of this facility is its dual applicability. It serves the needs of both the first-generation Galileo (G1G) ground control segment and the ongoing development of the second-generation Galileo (G2G). These segments, under the stewardship of GMV, have seen the company being awarded critical contracts by the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2018 and 2023, respectively.

The Galileo program, operational since its inception, has been a cornerstone in GMV's growth. The company's involvement began 20 years ago, and it has since been instrumental in developing the system's various stages. In 2018, GMV marked a significant milestone by securing the contract for the maintenance and evolution of Galileo's Ground Control Segment (GCS) for its first generation. This contract catalyzed substantial growth for GMV, both in terms of turnover and workforce expansion, solidifying its position as a leader in satellite ground control systems.

Further, in 2023, GMV expanded its portfolio with additional contracts, including the development of the ground control segment for G2G's in-orbit validation (IOV) system and the G2 System Test Bed (G2STB). These contracts, along with the extended contract for G1G's ground control segment maintenance through 2026, underscore GMV's critical role in the ongoing evolution of the Galileo program.

The establishment of the replica operations room is more than a symbolic gesture; it represents GMV's enduring commitment and capability in the realm of satellite navigation. By closely mimicking the actual control environments, GMV ensures that its teams are well-prepared to handle the complex tasks associated with operating and maintaining one of the world's most advanced satellite navigation systems.