February 2016

Artist’s rendition of SES and O3b Networks’ satellites. Photo: SES [Via Satellite 02-03-2016] SES has launched a new satellite data network called SES Plus that melds the operator’s geostationary (GEO) capabilities with those of O3b Networks’ Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites. SES Plus brings to market customized products and solutions from both satellite systems, combining…

Artist’s rendition of the modernized A2100. Photo: Lockheed Martin [Via Satellite 02-03-2016] Lockheed Martin has received a contract from Sky Perfect JSAT for the manufacture of JCSAT 17, a satellite based on the A2100 common design. JCSAT 17 is an S-band satellite that will operate well in excess of 15 years. The satellite will include…

GATR 2.4m and 4m antennas. Photo: GATR [Via Satellite 02-03-2016] After receiving Hart-Scott-Rodino regulatory approval, Cubic Corporation has completed the acquisition of GATR Technologies (GATR), a manufacturer of next-generation deployable satellite communication terminal solutions based in Huntsville, Ala. Cubic completed the acquisition of GATR on Feb. 2, 2016 for a purchase price of $232.5 million.…

Photo: Optus Satellite. [Via Satellite 02-03-2016] New Zealand-based Wireless Nation has signed a services agreement with Mobile Health NZ to broadcast high-quality health education sessions using video conferencing from their satellite van throughout rural areas. The service will leverage satellite connectivity from Australia-based Optus Satellite. Wireless Nation is an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that provides…

Mark Rawlins, SDA chairman. Photo: Radical Moves PR [Via Satellite 02-02-2016] The Space Data Association (SDA) is now offering a free geolocalization service for members to help provide a faster way to cut down on satellite interference. The new service formalizes a process that had occurred sporadically in recent years, with operators capable of geolocation…

Artist’s rendition of the Ariane 6 rocket. Photo: ESA [Via Satellite 02-02-2016] Airbus Safran Launchers (ASL) has signed a contract with Thales Alenia Space Belgium on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA) to participate in development of the range safety system for Ariane 6, including a qualification launch. The main function of the range…

Intelsat’s U.S. administrative headquarters: Photo: Intelsat [Via Satellite 02-02-2016] Intelsat has hired Jacques Kerrest as executive vice president and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), reporting to the operator’s CEO, Stephen Spengler. Kerrest began his new duties on Feb. 1. As a member of the company’s management committee, is responsible for the leadership of Intelsat’s financial operations,…

Photo: Jet Airways. [Via Satellite 02-02-2016] Global Eagle Entertainment (GEE) has partnered with India’s Jet Airways to provide In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) streaming service and Ku-band based Internet connectivity aboard the global airline’s fleet of Boeing 737 NG aircraft. Jet Airways, an airline with hub operations in Mumbai, selected GEE based in part on its existing…

[Via Satellite 02-02-2016] Satellite transmission specialist NovelSat has joined the Satellite Interference Reduction Group (IRG). 
NovelSat develops and delivers bandwidth efficient satellite transmission solutions comprising advanced modems, modulators and demodulators. “An important part of the NovelSat strategy is to improve spectral efficiency while introducing advance satellite interference mitigation algorithms. Joining IRG was a logical step for…

GPS 2F-11, the Air Force’s penultimate GPS 2F series satellite is encapsulated inside an Atlas 5 4-meter payload fairing. Photo: ULA [Via Satellite 02-01-2016] This week the U.S. Air Force, Boeing and United Launch Alliance (ULA) are planning to launch the final Global Positioning System (GPS) 2F series satellite, GPS 2F-12, in what marks not…