Galileo Space Service Volume Analysis for Earth Orbit Rising Missions
Abstract. Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are becoming key enablers for autonomous operations beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The Galileo Space Service Volume (SSV) offers strong potential for Earth Orbit Rising (EOR) missions, where spacecraft ascend from LEO to higher orbits using electric propulsion. This paper evaluates navigation performance achievable within the Galileo SSV for next-generation EOR missions using the JRC Integrated SSV Test Bench, which integrates realistic signal modelling, antenna patterns, and receiver dynamics. Two representative scenarios are analysed: a LEO–MEO transfer for a Galileo Second Generation satellite and a LEO–GEO transfer for a SATCOM platform. Results demonstrate that autonomous orbit determination is feasible with single-antenna configurations and moderate receiver sensitivity, confirming Galileo’s readiness, either alone or in conjunction with GPS interoperability to support autonomous orbit raising and guide future receiver design.