European Union Agency for the Space Programme

EUSPA was created on 12 May 2021 expanding on the scope of the former European GNSS Agency (GSA) in charge of the operations, service provision and security of EGNOS (European Satellite Based Augmentation System) and Galileo, the European GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). Building on the legacy of its predecessor, the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) provides safe and secure European satellite navigation services, promotes the commercialization of Galileo, EGNOS, and Copernicus data and services and coordinates the EU’s forthcoming governmental satellite communications programme GOVSATCOM. EUSPA is responsible for the security accreditation of all the EU Space Programme components. By fostering the development of an innovative and competitive space sector and engaging with the entire EU Space community, EUSPA contributes to the European Green Deal and digital transition, the safety and security of the Union and its citizens, while reinforcing its autonomy and resilience.

EUSPA has been supporting aviation by providing the EGNOS Safety of Life service (SoL) to both airlines and air navigation service providers since 2011. EGNOS offers enhanced vertical precision and integrity, supports reduction of emissions, improving accessibility, efficiency, and safety to operators, pilots and airports all over Europe. Currently, more than 400 airports and aerodromes use EGNOS in Europe. On the other hand, Galileo, the European GNSS, will further support navigation and surveillance applications in the aviation industry through augmentation, in particular via SBAS, ABAS (ARAIM) and GBAS (DFMC GBAS) and the use of dual frequency multi-constellation receivers. In addition, Galileo’s positioning and Search and Rescue services also assist in aircraft distress tracking. Moreover, Copernicus in synergy with Galileo and EGNOS will bring additional benefits and applications to support aviation users. More specifically, Copernicus could become a reliable source of weather information and forecast, for emission monitoring or for more efficient aircraft maintenance and operation optimisation.