Arianespace to launch EU's Galileo L14 on December 17, 2025, with Ariane 6

Arianespace will launch Galileo L14, a pair of satellites, with Ariane 6 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana.

The mission, called VA266, will be the fifth flight for Ariane 6, Europe's heavy-lift launcher. It will be performed with an Ariane 6 with two boosters, the Ariane 62, which has successfully flown in this version since its inaugural flight in 2024.

The 14^th operational launch in the Galileo programme, the satellites designated SAT 33 and SAT 34 will be placed into a medium Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 22 922 km. Spacecraft separation will occur 3 hours and 55 minutes after lift-off. Both satellites will then progressively reach their operational orbit at an altitude of 23 222 km.

Galileo is delivering best-in-class performance for real-time positioning accuracy worldwide, down to the meter range. It also offers innovative capabilities for professional users, such as authentication of signals and high-accuracy services, along with additional dedicated governmental services.

Galileo is a flagship component of the EU Space Programme. Owned by the European Union, it is under the management of the European Commission. Since its inception, ESA has been leading the design, development and qualification of the space and ground systems, as well as procuring launches. The EU Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) acts as the service provider, overseeing the market and application needs and closing the loop with users.