First introduced in 2019, the all-electric Spacebus Neo platform offers satellite operators proper launch conditions. Eutelsat Konnect is the very first to use Thales Alenia Space’s new platform and is all set to launch in 2020. Moreover, the satellite will be carrying Ka-band high throughput payload for better broadband communication.
ESA, the French PIA, and the French Space Agency came together to manage the Spacebus Neo platform, generating an exceptional return on investment.
Preparing for the launch
Eutelsat Communications first initiated a new-generation high-throughput Ka-band satellite in October 2015. Its aim is to serve the African continent by offering unprecedented operational flexibility. The satellite has finally reached France and is getting ready for its initial launch.
The team has already performed primary tests and confirmed that the satellite is ready for flight. The team reportedly placed the satellite on the upper position of the secondary payload adapter and then within the fairing. Finally, they fitted the assembled parts on top of the launcher during the last major step of the mechanical integration of the Ariane 5 rocket.
After going through all these processes, the satellite will be launched on 16 January 2020 as a part of flight VA251. Most importantly, this will be Ariane’s first launch in the year 2020 from the Spacebus Neo platform.
Goals to achieve
Eutelsat Konnect will deliver significant resources for broadband services for the African region to offer a flexible network setup. It will reportedly address direct-to-user consumer and enterprise broadband services using dishes from approximately 75 cm. This satellite can also establish community networks connected to Wi-Fi hotspots, mobile phone backhauling and rural connectivity.
Spacebus Neo platform combines high efficiency and lightweight, making it perfect for the launch of high capacity satellites. Therefore, Eutelsat Konnect can surely benefit from this launch.
After the 2020 Konnect launch, six more launches are scheduled to be launched from the all-electronic Spacebus Neo platform. For now, three initial launches will happen in 2021 and the rest will occur in 2022.
To conclude, we are looking forward to the very first launch of a high capacity satellite from Spacebus Neo, the all-electric platform. We wish all the success and hope it will offer much more in the future to develop our technology further.
