GSAT0002
-Galileo Satellite
GSAT0002 or GIOVE-B is the second of the test versions of the 30 craft European Union navigational fleet that is planned to be launched beginning 2010. It was launched by a Soyuz-Fregat rocket from Baikonur at 22:16 UT on 26 April 2008. (A similar version, GIOVE-A, was launched in December 2005.) The 500 kg craft carries two (redundant) Rubidium atomic clocks, and an even more precise Passive Hydrogen Maser with an accuracy of one nanosecond/day. It also carries a radiation-monitoring payload, and a laser retro-reflector for high-accuracy laser ranging. When completed, this Galileo fleet will become the third available fleet, after the long-functional GPS and the to-be-completed GLONASS fleets.
Satellite Information |
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Name | GSAT0002 |
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Organization | Galileo |
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Continent | Europe |
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Type | Satellite |
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Launch Date | April 26, 2008 |
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Launch Site | Baikonur, Site 31/6 |
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Launch Vehicle | Soyuz-FG |
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Orbit | MEO - Near-Circular |
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Orbital Period | 14.03 hrs |
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Inclination | 56 Degrees |
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Altitude | 23,220 km |
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Clock | Passive Hydrogen Maser (PHM) |
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Positioning Signals | L1, E1, E2, E5, E6 |
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Status | Retired |
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