Eutelsat, the world’s third-largest satellite operator, successfully launched 20 satellites for its communications network on Sunday.

This launch was done using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. It marks the company’s first major move since the merger of Eutelsat and Britain’s OneWeb last September .

CEO Eva Berneke emphasized that this is the first time they are launching satellites under the OneWeb name since the merger.

She mentioned plans for more satellite launches in the coming years . Eutelsat now has a network of over 600 low Earth orbit satellites, which provide services to broadcasters, telecom companies, and radio stations .

Berneke highlighted their goal to integrate more into the telecom industry, acknowledging that while satellites play a smaller role compared to major telecom operators, they are still essential for connectivity .

Eutelsat serves clients like France’s Orange and Australia’s Telstra, and it is also in discussions with U.S. companies like AT&T .

The company has a backlog of $4 billion in orders and is waiting for markets like India and Saudi Arabia to open for satellite services .

India, which is expected to see a 36% growth in the satellite market by 2030, is currently facing issues with domestic companies .

Berneke noted that they are ready to start building as soon as the Indian market opens up. Additionally, Eutelsat is in talks with airlines to provide in-flight internet services and expects its revenue to grow starting next year .

This successful launch is a significant step for Eutelsat, especially as it aims to expand its reach and services in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape .

Credit : Reuters

https://www.reuters.com/technology/space/eutelsat-uses-spacex-rocket-launch-first-satellites-after-merger-2024-10-20

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