Europe is facing a crisis due to a lack of launch capabilities, and the successful launch of two new Galileo satellites on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center is a welcome relief. The European Union Space Program Agency (EUSPA) sent the Galileo satellites GM25 and FM27 into space, and the web broadcast of the launch ended after confirmation of payload fairing separation. No video was provided after the first stage separation.
The European Commission and European Space Agency did not publicize the launch in advance, which is unusual. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton took to social media to announce the successful launch and highlight its importance for Galileo’s applications. The launch on the Falcon 9 reveals part of the secrecy surrounding the operation, especially in light of Europe’s need for its own means for satellite launches. With delays in the Ariane 6 rocket and Europe’s inability to access Russian Soyuz rockets, this deal with SpaceX is crucial for ensuring that Europe remains competitive in space exploration.
