Following the announcement of the upcoming launch of its first satellites, ESA has officially named the Low Earth Orbit Positioning Navigation Timing (LEO-PNT) mission Celeste. The new program will test how a low Earth orbit layer of satellites can reinforce the resilience of Europe's Galileo system and extend its capabilities.

Galileo and its sister augmentation service EGNOS have become central to modern infrastructure, underpinning everything from smartphone navigation to essential services. Celeste will now provide an added layer of security and availability, ensuring Europe's satellite navigation systems continue to serve reliably in the decades ahead.

The mission's name carries historical symbolism. Maria Celeste, daughter of Galileo Galilei, was a confidante and supporter of her f

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