Method and system for the launch, station acquisition and station-keeping of a satellite in GEO orbit

The method involves transporting total quantity of propellant required for carrying out station acquisition of a satellite (1) e.g. earth observation satellite, in a geostationary orbit (GEO) (4) from a geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) (5) and station-keeping of the satellite, into two distinct units. A tanker (2) is launched on the GTO. Station acquisition of the tanker is carried out on a parking orbit near to the GEO using propulsion of propulsive efficiency higher than chemical propulsion of the satellite. An independent claim is also included for a system comprising a satellite and a tanker.