GALILEO is the European Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) that, once the full operational capability is achieved, will provide a highly accurate global positioning service under civilian control. It will consist of 30 satellites in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) at an altitude of 23,222 kilometres, with the orbital planes having an inclination of 56° with respect to the equator. Each satellite will transmit navigational signals over 5 carrier frequencies (E5a: 1176.450 MHz, E5b: 1207.140 MHz, E5a+b: 1191.795 MHz E6: 1278.75 MHz, E2-L1-E1: 1575.42 MHz) and at least 6 satellites will be in view from any point of the Earth. GALILEO is expected to offer additional opportunities for advanced ionosphere/space weather research. With the first operational satellites already in orbit, and the first position fix in three dimensions already achieved, it is time to look more closely at these opportunities and plan for appropriate GALILEO-based applications.

This session will be dedicated to all aspects of the utilisation of the GALILEO system for ionospheric research including monitoring, modelling and service applications. Particular interest is on the use of GALILEO signals in relation to TEC calculations, ionospheric occultation measurements, ionospheric scintillations, GNSS precise positioning and navigation, ionospheric corrections, augmentation systems, etc. Presentations related to GALILEO compatibility and/or interoperability with other GNSS systems are also welcome.

Solicited speaker: Roberto Prieto Cerdeira (ESA)