The European satellite navigation system took another step forward June 21 when Alcatel Space delivered the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) system to the European Space Agency, Alcatel announced.

EGNOS passed its operational readiness review, allowing the system to begin providing non-safety-of-life applications via a contract with the European Satellite Services Provider. EGNOS, consisting of three geostationary satellites and a network of ground stations, transmits a signal containing information on the reliability and accuracy of the positioning signals sent out by the U.S. GPS and Russian Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System. The improved accuracy of the EGNOS signal will allow users to determine their position to within five meters, suitable for applications such as flying aircraft or navigating ships through channels, Alcatel said.

The review marks the completion of the system’s technical qualification, which represents more than eight years of work from a consortium of more than 40 companies. It is also the first step for early Galileo applications, Alcatel said.