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Supporting CELESTE LEO‑PNT Mission

Qualification and validation of the CELESTE IOV satellite

We are proud to play a key role in the qualification and validation of the CELESTE IOV satellite, the first in-orbit demonstrator of the ESA LEO-PNT programme led by GMV.

We have supported critical activities for the EQM and FM models through the execution of environmental and RF/EMC testing, including vibration testing and verification of system-level electromagnetic self-compatibility, as well as end-to-end compatibility and radio frequency testing under clean anechoic chamber conditions.

LEO-PNT introduces a new paradigm in satellite navigation by complementing existing GNSS systems such as Galileo with a Low Earth Orbit (~500 km) constellation.

The CELESTE mission foresees around 10–11 satellites integrated with Galileo and EGNOS in a multi-layer architecture, enabling higher signal power, reduced latency, and significantly improved resilience against interference, particularly in challenging environments.

The EMC and Vibration test campaign performed at ALTER are critica to asses  the satellite’s capability to: 

  • Receive Galileo and other GNSS signals
  • Perform precise orbit determination and time synchronization
  • Generate and transmit LEO-PNT navigation signals and messages
  • Ensure full compliance with the Signal-In-Space ICD
  • Deliver validated signals to a Test User Receiver developed by GMV
  • Withstand launch loads and mechanical stresses through vibration testing, ensuring structural integrity and mission reliability

This milestone demonstrates that the transmitted signals are fully compliant with specifications and usable by receivers, an essential step in proving the viability of the LEO-PNT concept.

Looking ahead, the full CELESTE demonstrator constellation is expected to be deployed by 2027, with future developments exploring interoperability with 5G networks and enabling new applications in autonomous mobility and critical infrastructure.

With our Space Test Centre facilities, accredited by ESA, we remain committed to supporting the verification and qualification of next-generation space systems and strengthening Europe’s capabilities in resilient Positioning, Navigation and Timing services.