# GSAT0233

> navigation satellite in the Galileo constellation

**Wikidata**: [Q137584540](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q137584540)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gsat0233

## Summary  
GSAT0233 is a navigation satellite in the Galileo constellation, launched on December 17, 2025, as part of Europe's global navigation satellite system. It is a Galileo Full Operational Capability (FOC) satellite designed to provide precise positioning and timing services. The satellite was manufactured by OHB System AG and Surrey Satellite Technology, with a design life of 12 years.

## Key Facts  
- **Launch Date**: December 17, 2025, at 05:01:58 UTC from ELA-4.  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Ariane 62 (flight VA266).  
- **Mass**: 733 kilograms.  
- **Operator**: European Union Agency for the Space Programme.  
- **Design Life**: 12 years.  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2025-302A.  
- **Spacecraft Bus**: SmartMEO.  
- **Power Source**: Two solar arrays.  
- **Orbit**: Medium Earth orbit.  
- **Preceded/Succeeded By**: GSAT0232 (predecessor), GSAT0234 (successor).  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the purpose of GSAT0233?  
A: GSAT0233 is part of the Galileo constellation, providing global navigation and timing services for civilian and commercial use, enhancing Europe's independence in satellite navigation.  

### Q: Who manufactured GSAT0233?  
A: The satellite was built by OHB System AG (bus) and Surrey Satellite Technology (payload).  

### Q: How long will GSAT0233 remain operational?  
A: It has a design life of 12 years, though actual service may extend beyond this period.  

## Why It Matters  
GSAT0233 is a critical component of the Galileo system, Europe's answer to GPS and other global navigation systems. By providing high-precision positioning and timing, it supports applications ranging from transportation and agriculture to emergency services and financial transactions. The satellite reinforces Europe's technological autonomy and reduces reliance on foreign systems. Its launch marks another step toward full operational capability for Galileo, ensuring continuous and resilient service for millions of users worldwide.  

## Notable For  
- Part of the Galileo Full Operational Capability (FOC) phase, expanding Europe's independent navigation infrastructure.  
- Launched aboard an Ariane 62, showcasing Europe's launch capabilities.  
- Features advanced timing and positioning technology for civilian and commercial use.  

## Body  
### Launch Details  
- **Date**: December 17, 2025.  
- **Time**: 05:01:58 UTC.  
- **Launch Site**: ELA-4, Europe's Spaceport.  
- **Vehicle**: Ariane 62 (flight VA266).  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Mass**: 733 kg.  
- **Power**: Two solar arrays.  
- **Orbit**: Medium Earth orbit (~23,222 km altitude).  
- **Design Life**: 12 years.  

### Manufacturing and Components  
- **Bus**: OHB System AG (SmartMEO platform).  
- **Payload**: Surrey Satellite Technology.  

### Operational Context  
- **Operator**: European Union Agency for the Space Programme.  
- **Predecessor**: GSAT0232.  
- **Successor**: GSAT0234.  

## Schema Markup  
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "GSAT0233",
  "description": "Navigation satellite in the Galileo constellation.",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q123166403"],
  "additionalType": "Galileo Full Operational Capability"
}

## References

1. [Source](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/system-status/orbital-and-technical-parameters)
2. [Source](https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/galileo-foc.htm)
3. CelesTrak
4. [Galileo FOC FM33-FM34](https://nextspaceflight.com/launches/details/3323/)
5. Jonathan's Space Report
6. [Galileo Gets a Boost: Two New Satellites Successfully Launched. 2025](https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/galileo-gets-boost-two-new-satellites-successfully-launched-2025-12-17_en)
7. [Notice Advisory to Galileo Users. 2025](https://www.gsc-europa.eu/notice-advisory-to-galileo-users-nagu-2025061)