SpaceX has successfully launched a set of 20 satellites for European internet provider Eutelsat, further advancing the company's satellite network.
Eutelsat Expands Satellite Network with Successful SpaceX Launch
The launch took place at 10:13 p.m. local time on Saturday from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, using a Falcon 9 rocket. Just eight minutes after liftoff, the rocket's first-stage booster made a successful landing on the designated pad, marking another triumph for SpaceX's reusable rocket program.
Eutelsat OneWeb, formed through the merger of Eutelsat and OneWeb in 2023, is working to expand its satellite constellation, said UPI.
After the launch, Eutelsat Group's CEO, Eva Berneke, shared her excitement, saying, "We are delighted with the successful deployment of these new satellites, which will enhance our network services for better customer performance."
The launch adds to the nearly 700 operational satellites in Eutelsat OneWeb's constellation. This growing network aims to compete with other low Earth orbit (LEO) internet providers, such as SpaceX's Starlink, which has already deployed over 7,000 broadband satellites and boasts four million subscribers, according to Space News.
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Eutelsat Strengthens Satellite Network
Katie Dowd, a spokesperson for Eutelsat, confirmed that communication with all 20 newly launched satellites had been successfully established.
Dowd added that while their current satellite network provides global coverage, the company is working to improve ground infrastructure to fully operationalize their services by spring.
The company operates 654 satellites in orbit, and while they are planning to phase out older Gen 1 satellites in the coming years, they aim to maintain service continuity as they explore next-generation technology.
The launch reflects Eutelsat's commitment to strengthening its multi-orbit network, designed to meet growing market demand and compete with Starlink for business and government customers.