Eutelsat, the world's third-largest satellite operator by revenue, marked a significant milestone on Sunday by launching 20 satellites into orbit using SpaceX's reliable Falcon 9 rocket. This launch is Eutelsat's first move since the merger of two European giants, Eutelsat and Britain's OneWeb, last September.
The successful liftoff took place from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base at 5:13 a.m., ushering in a new era for the Paris-based group. With a growing constellation of over 600 low Earth orbit satellites, Eutelsat aims to enhance its communications network, catering to broadcasters, telecom companies, and radio stations worldwide.
\"This is the first OneWeb launch of the satellites since the merger,\" CEO Eva Berneke shared with Reuters. \"We will be launching more satellites over the coming years.\" The merger combines Eutelsat's robust infrastructure with OneWeb's innovative technology, positioning the company to better integrate into the telecommunications ecosystem.
Berneke emphasized the strategic role of satellites within the broader connectivity landscape. \"Satellites are an interesting niche in the overall connectivity ecosystems, where telcos are the big players and satellites will always be a smaller part,\" she explained. Nevertheless, Eutelsat's efforts to collaborate with major telecom operators like France's Orange and Australia's Telstra, and ongoing discussions with U.S. giants like AT&T, underscore the company's commitment to expanding its reach.
With a backlog of orders worth $4 billion, Eutelsat is poised for significant growth as it awaits market openings in countries like India and Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the company is in talks with aviation firms to provide in-flight connectivity services, including internet browsing, which is expected to boost revenues starting next year.
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Eutelsat uses SpaceX rocket to launch first satellites after merger
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