Praise for Guildford Scientists' Contribution to Galileo Project

Guildford scientists responsible for the design and construction of the first test satellite for the Galileo project, which was successfully launched on 28 December, will receive congratulations on behalf of the Borough Council and the people of Guildford. The Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Tamsy Baker, will write to offer congratulations to the team led by Professor Sir Martin Sweeting, following a question put to her by Cllr Gordon Bridger (Lib Dem, Holy Trinity) at last week's Council meeting.

The Giove-A satellite, designed and constructed by Surrey Technology Limited working at Surrey University, was successfully launched in Kazakhstan, and will provide the first live test of the new European Galileo navigation system. The satellite is now successfully communicating with its ground station, and the control and testing will be carried out by the Guildford scientists. When it is fully operational in 2010, the Galileo system will consist of 30 satellites orbiting the earth, providing a civilian service to rival the US Global Positioning System which is run by the military. Galileo will enable improvements to transport systems, for example by providing more accurate positioning for in-car route-finders.

Cllr Bridger said "The work of Professor Sweeting's team is vital to the success of the Galileo project. Their work acts a guide and inspiration to many young scientists and educational institutions in Guildford and in Britain, and emphasises how important scientific innovation and enterprise is to the future of our country. I am delighted that the Mayor has agreed to offer congratulations on behalf of us all."