# GSAT0208

> navigation satellite in the Galileo constellation

**Wikidata**: [Q26263018](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q26263018)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gsat0208

## Summary
GSAT0208 is a navigation satellite in the Galileo constellation, launched on December 17, 2015, to provide global positioning services as part of Europe's independent satellite navigation system. It operates in medium Earth orbit and is designed for a 12-year service life, contributing to precision timing and location data for civilian and commercial use.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: December 17, 2015, at 11:51:56 UTC.
- **Part of**: The Galileo Full Operational Capability (FOC) series, specifically designated as Galileo-FOC FM8.
- **Manufacturer**: OHB System AG (primary) and Surrey Satellite Technology (payload).
- **Operator**: European Union Agency for the Space Programme.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2015-079B.
- **Mass**: 733 kg (launch weight).
- **Orbit**: Medium Earth orbit with a semi-major axis of 29,599.8 km and 56.0° inclination.
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-2.1b rocket with Fregat-MT upper stage.
- **Service Entry**: April 22, 2016.

## FAQs
### Q: When was GSAT0208 launched?
A: GSAT0208 was launched on December 17, 2015, at 11:51:56 UTC aboard a Soyuz-2.1b rocket from the Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz in Kourou, French Guiana.

### Q: What is the purpose of GSAT0208?
A: GSAT0208 provides high-precision global navigation and timing services as part of the Galileo constellation, enhancing Europe's independence in satellite navigation.

### Q: How long is GSAT0208 designed to operate?
A: The satellite has a designed service life of 12 years, beginning operational service on April 22, 2016.

## Why It Matters
GSAT0208 is a critical component of the Galileo navigation system, Europe's alternative to GPS. It contributes to global positioning accuracy, supporting aviation, maritime, land transport, and emergency services. As part of the Full Operational Capability (FOC) phase, it ensures reliable signal coverage across Europe and beyond, reducing reliance on non-European systems. Its 12-year design life and advanced payload technology underscore its role in long-term navigation infrastructure, fostering economic and strategic autonomy in the EU.

## Notable For
- **FOC Series Membership**: One of the 22 Galileo FOC satellites, marking the system's transition to full operational status.
- **Dual-Manufacturer Collaboration**: Built by OHB System AG (bus) and Surrey Satellite Technology (payload), reflecting European industrial cooperation.
- **SmartMEO Bus**: Utilizes the SmartMEO spacecraft bus, optimized for medium Earth orbit operations.
- **Precision Orbit**: Maintains a near-circular orbit (eccentricity ~0.0) at 29,599.8 km altitude, ensuring consistent signal coverage.

## Body
### Launch Details
GSAT0208 launched on December 17, 2015, at 11:51:56 UTC from the Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz in Kourou, French Guiana. The Soyuz-2.1b rocket (serial R 15000-010) deployed the satellite via a Fregat-MT upper stage (serial 133-04). It was the eighth FOC satellite and the 11th overall in the Galileo constellation.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 733 kg at launch.
- **Power**: Equipped with two spacecraft solar arrays.
- **Design Life**: 12 years, with operational service beginning April 22, 2016.
- **Payload**: Navigation signal generation equipment for E1, E5, and E6 frequency bands.

### Orbital Parameters
- **Semi-Major Axis**: 29,599.8 km.
- **Inclination**: 56.0°.
- **Eccentricity**: ~0.0 (near-circular orbit).
- **Orbit Type**: Medium Earth orbit (MEO).

### Operational Status
GSAT0208 entered service on April 22, 2016, broadcasting navigation signals as part of the Galileo Open Service. It operates alongside other FOC satellites to ensure global coverage, with health and signal integrity monitored by the Galileo Control Center.

## 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=2015-079B)
4. [Source](http://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/galileo-foc.htm)
5. Jonathan's Space Report
6. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/galileo-foc.htm)
7. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/galileo-gsc-overview/system)
8. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/notice-advisory-to-galileo-users-nagu-2016007)
9. [Source](http://www.gsc-europa.eu/notice-advisory-to-galileo-users-nagu-2016008)