Internet connectivity from space. It’s soon gonna be possible. OneWeb, a global communications company with a mission to bring connectivity to everyone, everywhere, has successfully launched its 1st six broadband satellites aboard a Soyuz launch vehicle from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana.
The company said on its Website that the six OneWeb satellites separated from the rocket in 2 batches. Signal acquisition has been confirmed for all six satellites. OneWeb’s satellites are manufactured by OneWeb Satellites, a joint venture between OneWeb & Airbus Defence and Space.
Launching more than 30 satellites per rocket, OneWeb’s monthly launch program will grow its constellation to more than 650 satellites to allow customer demos in 2020 & provide full global commercial coverage by 2021.
The OneWeb network will provide a combination of high data throughput, low latency, true global coverage to the poles, & a range of user terminals for multiple markets. OneWeb’s satellites will communicate with Earth via the Ka and Ku spectrum bands.
OneWeb announced yesterday the signing of its 1st two customers, highlighting the demand for global coverage solutions. OneWeb’s business model allows OneWeb to provide service indirectly through reseller partners, or directly to the end customer, in the case of airlines or vessel operators, for example.
Adrian Steckel, CEO of OneWeb, said on the Site,“OneWeb was founded to make access possible for everyone, everywhere, and this launch is the first step towards making our goal a reality and bringing much-needed Internet access to people no matter where they are.
Our system will be able to offer significantly lower latency & faster speeds. We designed our system to create a coverage footprint over the entire planet – including previously unconnected rural areas, seas, & airspaces.
Image Credit: OneWeb
