# GSAT0205

> navigation satellite in the Galileo constellation

**Wikidata**: [Q26263016](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q26263016)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gsat0205

## Summary
GSAT0205 is a navigation satellite that is part of the Galileo constellation, Europe's global navigation satellite system. It is an instance of the Galileo Full Operational Capability (FOC) model, designed to provide precise positioning, navigation, and timing services. The satellite was launched on September 11, 2015, and officially entered service on January 28, 2016.

## Key Facts
- GSAT0205 is a navigation satellite within the Galileo constellation, operated by the European Union Agency for the Space Programme.
- It is identified by aliases such as Alba, Galileo-FOC FM5, Galileo 9, GalileoSat-9, and Galileo FM5.
- The satellite was launched on September 11, 2015, at 02:08:10 UTC from Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz.
- Its service entry date was January 28, 2016, with a design service life of 12 years.
- GSAT0205 has a launch mass of 733 kilograms and is powered by two spacecraft solar arrays.
- It operates in a medium Earth orbit with an orbital inclination of 56.0 degrees and an orbital eccentricity of 0.0.
- The satellite was manufactured by OHB System AG and Surrey Satellite Technology.
- Its COSPAR ID and NSSDCA ID are both 2015-045A.

## FAQs
### Q: What is GSAT0205?
A: GSAT0205 is a navigation satellite that is part of the Galileo constellation. It is specifically a Galileo Full Operational Capability (FOC) model satellite, contributing to Europe's global navigation system.

### Q: When was GSAT0205 launched and when did it enter service?
A: GSAT0205 was launched on September 11, 2015, at 02:08:10 UTC. It officially entered service on January 28, 2016.

### Q: Who operates GSAT0205?
A: GSAT0205 is operated by the European Union Agency for the Space Programme.

### Q: What is the expected service life of GSAT0205?
A: GSAT0205 has a design service life of 12 years, with a projected decommissioning date of December 15, 2025.

## Why It Matters
GSAT0205 plays a crucial role as a component of the Galileo constellation, which is Europe's global navigation satellite system. As a "Full Operational Capability" (FOC) model, it contributes to the system's ability to provide precise positioning, navigation, and timing services worldwide. The Galileo system offers independent and highly accurate global positioning, reducing reliance on other satellite navigation systems and enhancing Europe's strategic autonomy in space. Satellites like GSAT0205 are essential for a wide range of applications, including transportation, emergency services, agriculture, and critical infrastructure, by enabling accurate location data. Its successful launch and operation contribute directly to the robustness and reliability of the Galileo system, ensuring continuous and improved service for users across the globe. The planned decommissioning in 2025 highlights the lifecycle management within such complex space infrastructure.

## Notable For
- Being an instance of the Galileo Full Operational Capability (FOC) model, contributing to Europe's independent global navigation system.
- Its specific launch on September 11, 2015, as part of the ongoing deployment of the Galileo constellation.
- Operating in a medium Earth orbit with a precise orbital inclination of 56.0 degrees and an eccentricity of 0.0.
- Having a design service life of 12 years, contributing to long-term navigation services.

## Body

### Overview
GSAT0205 is a navigation satellite, also known by aliases such as Alba, Galileo-FOC FM5, Galileo 9, GalileoSat-9, and Galileo FM5. It is classified as an instance of the Galileo Full Operational Capability (FOC) model. The satellite is a part of the Galileo constellation, which is operated by the European Union Agency for the Space Programme. Its unique Spacecraft Catalog Number (SCN) is 40889.

### Technical Specifications
GSAT0205 has a launch mass of 733 kilograms, based on its launch weight. It is built around a SmartMEO spacecraft bus. Power is supplied by two spacecraft solar arrays. The satellite's design life for service is 12 years.

### Launch and Deployment
The launch of GSAT0205 occurred on September 11, 2015, at 02:08:10 UTC. The launch vehicle used was a Soyuz-2.1b rocket, specifically version T 15000-009. A Fregat-MT space tug, version 133-03, was utilized for orbital insertion. The launch originated from Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz. Its COSPAR ID and NSSDCA ID are both 2015-045A.

### Orbital Characteristics
GSAT0205 operates in a medium Earth orbit. Key orbital parameters include an orbital inclination of 56.0 degrees, an orbital eccentricity of 0.0, and a semi-major axis of an orbit measuring 29599.8 kilometers.

### Operational History
GSAT0205 entered service on January 28, 2016. Significant events in its operational timeline include its rocket launch on September 11, 2015, and its service entry. The satellite is projected for spacecraft decommissioning on December 15, 2025.

### Manufacturing
The satellite was manufactured by a collaboration between OHB System AG and Surrey Satellite Technology.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/system-status/orbital-and-technical-parameters)
2. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/news/countdown-a-month-to-go-to-galileos-next-launch)
3. [Source](http://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraftDisplay.do?id=2015-045A)
4. [Source](http://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/galileo-foc.htm)
5. Jonathan's Space Report
6. [Source](http://planet4589.org/space/log/satcat.txt)
7. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/galileo-foc.htm)
8. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/galileo-gsc-overview/system)
9. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/notice-advisory-to-galileo-users-nagu-2016002)
10. [Source](http://www.gsc-europa.eu/notice-advisory-to-galileo-users-nagu-2016001)
11. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/notice-advisory-to-galileo-users-nagu-2025059)