ESA Invests E12 Million in Revolutionary Galileo Satellite Clock Technology

ESA Invests E12 Million in Revolutionary Galileo Satellite Clock Technology
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Mar 12, 2024

The European Space Agency (ESA), representing the European Commission, has finalized a E12 million agreement with Leonardo S.p.A (Italy) and the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica for the inception and development of cutting-edge atomic clock technology to enhance the Galileo satellite navigation system.

This initiative underscores the critical role of ultra-precise and reliable atomic clocks in satellite navigation, which are pivotal for the system's performance and positioning accuracy. Recognizing that technological advancements can span a decade from concept to space deployment, ESA is dedicated to ensuring Galileo remains a leader in global navigation through continuous research and development supported by the Horizon Europe program.

The project commenced last month, following a competitive selection process, culminating in a E12 million contract with a consortium led by Leonardo S.p.A and the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica (INRiM) as the subcontractor. This effort is part of a broader R and D agenda for Galileo, aiming to explore various clock technologies to further enhance the system.

Manuela Rapisarda, GNSS Evolutions Payload Principal Engineer at ESA, detailed the project's focus on developing a pulsed optically pumped rubidium atomic clock. This technology marries the durability of rubidium vapor cell atomic clocks, prevalent in existing satellite navigation systems, with the latest optical and digital advancements.

The consortium's mandate includes designing, building, testing, and qualifying an engineering model, leading to the deployment of an experimental flight model on a Galileo Second Generation satellite for preliminary in-orbit testing. This experimental clock, which will complement the operational clocks, will undergo continuous monitoring to assess its reliability and lifespan.

Galileo's significant role as a vital European space infrastructure highlights the potential impact of the new clock technology in enhancing system performance and securing Europe's leadership in atomic clock innovations. Pascale Flagel, Head of the Galileo and EGNOS Evolution Division, emphasized the strategic importance of maintaining Europe's edge in this domain.

In addition to clock technology, Horizon Europe is funding R and D projects to evolve EGNOS and Galileo across various fronts, adapting to emerging trends and evolving user demands.

The narrative also explains the essence of satellite navigation timing and its critical importance in determining precise locations, illustrating Galileo's commitment to precision and innovation in global satellite navigation.