Arianespace Sends 4 Galileo Satellites Into Orbit

Arianespace’s Ariane 5 launcher completed its 82nd consecutive launch on December 12, lifting four navigational satellites into orbit. The satellites and additional equipment weighed around 7,238 pounds (3,283 kg), according to Arianespace.The launch occurred at the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana. The satellites are designed to support the European Union’s Galileo navigation system, which is intended to consist of 30 satellites in total. Currently, 22 satellites are in orbit. The system is expected to alleviate Europe’s reliance on the US GPS, Reuters reported.Arianespace plans to use Ariane 5 to launch four more Galileo satellites in 2018. Credit: Arianespace via Storyful