SpaceX Launches Internet-Providing Satellites for SES
SpaceX has successfully launched its Falcon 9 rocket carrying a pair of internet-providing satellites for Luxembourg-based company, SES. The liftoff took place from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The satellites will be deployed around 6:08 p.m. EST.
Launch Details
The launch is part of SpaceX’s second Falcon 9 mission of the weekend. The liftoff is scheduled during an 89-minute window that opens at 4:08 p.m. EST. The launch weather forecast predicts a 70 percent chance of favorable weather at liftoff, with cumulus clouds being the main concern. If the launch is delayed to Monday, the weather conditions worsen to only 40 percent favorable.
Live Coverage
Spaceflight Now will provide live coverage with commentary of the O3b mPOWER 5&6 launch. The coverage will begin approximately an hour before liftoff. You can watch it here.
About the O3b mPOWER Satellites
The O3b mPOWER satellites are part of SES’s initiative to provide consistent and reliable internet service to the billions of people around the world without access. This is the third launch of the Boeing-built satellites, with the first two pairs launching in December 2022 and April 2023. The satellites operate in a medium Earth orbit (MEO), approximately 8,000 kilometers above the Earth.
Delays and Challenges
The launch of the third pair of O3b mPOWER satellites has faced challenges for SES. The company has experienced sporadic power module switch-offs and non-recoverable events with the previously launched satellites. Investigations are ongoing to determine the root causes and possible solutions. Despite these challenges, SES remains committed to addressing the issues and delivering the full capabilities of the constellation.
Upgrades and Expansion
SES has secured firm commitments from Boeing to upgrade the remaining satellites under contract and add two more satellites to the constellation. This will bring the total number of satellites in the O3b mPOWER constellation to 13, compared to the original 20 in the O3b constellation. The upgrades and expansion aim to improve the operational life and available capacity of the satellites.
Meeting Financial Incentive Goals
SES’s priority in launching the O3b mPOWER satellites is not only to provide internet service but also to meet a deadline set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). By vacating the C-band spectrum, SES becomes eligible for a $3 billion payment. The company successfully met the deadline, enabling the accelerated deployment of 5G services in the U.S. and protecting critical broadcast services.
Future Launches
The launch of the next pair of O3b mPOWER satellites is planned for the back half of 2024. Satellites 9, 10, and 11 are expected to launch in 2025, followed by satellites 12 and 13 in 2026. SES has a contract backlog of €4.7 billion, which includes the SES-17 satellite and the O3b mPOWER constellation.
Conclusion
In the ever-expanding realm of space technology, SpaceX’s successful launch of internet-providing satellites for SES marks a significant stride towards global connectivity. Despite challenges faced by SES, including sporadic power module issues. The commitment to resolving these concerns underscores the dedication to providing reliable internet services to underserved regions. The O3b mPOWER satellites, operating in a medium Earth orbit, symbolize SES’s commitment to meeting FCC deadlines, unlocking financial incentives, and facilitating the rapid deployment of 5G services. As SES navigates upgrades, expansion, and future launches, the mission exemplifies the fusion of technological innovation, strategic planning, and a vision for a more connected world.
Photo: SpaceX, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
