The next generation of the OneWeb constellation is now funded. Eutelsat will divert its dividend payments for the next two years to help cover the cost of building and launching the expanded low earth orbit constellation as part of a merger deal between the two companies announced on Tuesday. v
GEO
Slowing their ESA roll
Electronically steered antennae (ESAs) are coming to commercial and business aviation. But not everyone is in a hurry to get there. Two companies with ESA products on their roadmap took a step back focusing on existing, proven technology platforms instead.
Two more ESAs prepare for flight
More electronically steered antenna (ESAs) solutions will be flying later this year. At least two more companies are looking to launch test flights of the new technology with a focus on eventually serving commercial aircraft.
Bridging the transition: Anuvu details connectivity roadmap
What does a satellite connectivity company do with 10 gigabits/second of new capacity? “Deliver it to customers” was an easy answer for Anuvu’s EVP Connectivity Mike Pigott. But how that capacity gets allocated, and what it means for the company’s evolution of mobile connectivity is rather more complex.
Anuvu adds $50 million for MicroGEO connectivity growth
Four months after announcing plans for a new MicroGEO satellite constellation, in-flight connectivity supplier Anuvu secured $50 million to help develop and launch the platform. The capital is anticipated to support the expansion of the Anuvu Constellation ground and space networks, including its network management and data platforms and advanced mobility-focused antennas.
OneWeb, GDC Technics partner on new ESA solution
OneWeb and GDC Technics signed a Joint Development Agreement to deliver a new in-flight connectivity terminal. The new terminal, based on the electronically steered antenna technology developed by Ball Aerospace, will enable airlines to connect their aircraft, passengers, and crew over OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communication network.
Successful launch for SES-17, boosting in-flight wifi coverage, capacity
The SES-17 satellite successfully launched into space onboard an Ariane 5 launcher operated by Arianespace. It is expected to enter service in mid-2022.
Eutelsat boosts OneWeb stake
Eutelsat invested an additional $165 million in OneWeb during the latest funding round. The move boosts its share form 17.6% to 22.9%, making it the second largest shareholder, after Bharti.
Inmarsat boosts L-Band network with ELERA launch
Say hello to the next generation of L-band satellite connectivity. Inmarsat ELERA, unveiled this week, promises a dramatic increase in bandwidth, smaller terminals, and lower costs for the narrow-band market. This should drive a significant boost in aircraft safety, among other facets.
Inmarsat to grow connectivity with multi-channel Orchestra platform
What if satellites alone are not the best solution to mobile connectivity demand? Under its newly announced Orchestra initiative, Inmarsat wants to take a different tack. The company plans to layer multiple communications technologies, adding terrestrial services and LEO satellites to the existing GEO satellite footprint. Traffic will route via the best available network at any given time.