How satellite broadband can foster aviation safety
VVVolVolVolVol o6 o6 66l l. .No. NoNo. No77 N N 55 oo5.. 10SeptemberNovembe 2018r 2019
AFRICA
Space assets critical to ending insurgency in Nigeria
By MarcelSPECIAL Dischinger REPORT Algeria’s rising space program
C O N T E N T S Vol. 7 No. 10
C-Band Alliance proposes to clear 300 MHz of spectrum for nationwide 5G deployment Editor in-chief Aliyu Bello Space Tech Expo Europe defines market Executive Manager Tonia Gerrald drivers for satellite communications SA to the editor in-Chief Ngozi Okey How satellite broadband can foster aviation safety Head, Application Services M. Yakubu Eutelsat launches an integrated IoT connectivity service via satellite Editorial/ICT Services John Daniel Usman Bello Egypt and the "space race” Alozie Nwankwo ITU’ WRC-19 Conference to play pivotal Juliet Nnamdi role in tomorrow's digital environment Client Relations Sunday Tache Satellite firm connects 700 schools to internet Lookman Bello Tunisia's Telnet to launch first home-made Safiya Thani satellite in July 2020 Marketing Offy Pat Thuraya highlights remote IoT connectivity at OilComm 2019 Tunde Nathaniel Wasiu Olatunde SpaceX's Starlink satellite broadband tested by US Military Media Relations Favour Madu WMO Regional Office for Africa opens in Ethiopia Khadijat Yakubu Intelsat announces Q3 2019 results Zacheous Felicia Nigeria’s radio quite zone hub revealed! Finance Folarin Tunde Setting new milestones in Q1 Eutelsat orders EUTELSAT 10B satellite for inflight and maritime Space Watch Magazine is a publication of connectivity services Algeria’s rising space program Communication Science, Inc. All correspondence should be addressed to editor, space Watch Magazine. Abuja office: Plot 2009, Awka Street, UTC Building, GF 11, Area 10, Garki, Abuja, Nigeria Tel: 234 80336471114, 07084706167, email: [email protected]
LEGAL CONSULTANTS Idowu Oriola & Co. Garki, Abuja
DISTRIBUTION CONTACTS Ade Adejo
ABIJAN INTERNATIONAL Suleija, Abuja
AYO DISTRIBUTION AGENCY Emir Road, Ilorin Olumayowa Ojo
NEWSROUND INTERNATIONAL Area 10, Garki, Abuja Magazine Circulation Nigeria Limited 90, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja Magazine Subscription Nigeria Limited Ikeja, Lagos.
DELALI OTCHI Ridge Church, Tudu Branch, Accra, Ghana.
AL AHRAM NEWPAPERS LIMITED Al Galaa Street -11511 Cairo-Egypt Ayo Olu
MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION AGENCY Jos, Plateau State. Cover source Wipro Infotech
1
Editorial
Africa 2030: the road map for sustainable development goals
At a political level, the 2030 Agenda for transition will structurally constrain the SDGs is important so that national Sustainable Development (SDG 2030) attainment of SDGs (people-centered budgeting and mainstreaming can take and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda as well as other goals). Social inclusion them into account. (AAAA) have been universally adopted. remains a key challenge. However, African nations have already committed SDG performance across the different This report provides a holistic digest of to achieving the goals of the SDG 2030 regions in Africa is heterogeneous, with the progress, constraints and and the Africa Union Agenda 2063. When North Africa ahead of others. challenges that Africa continues to face, the continent first adopted the 2030 and it should form the basis for each Sustainable Development Agenda, its The lack of progress on SDGs in Africa stakeholder's work plan going forwards. starting point was lower than other is a shared failure for all stakeholders. Opportunities exist: untapped regions. There is a persistent lack of clarity on investment opportunities and the growth mutual accountability mechanisms. This of financial and technological African countries had huge development is also exhibited on the supply side, innovations can be harnessed to needs, but their economies faced a where the financing for SDGs is well support the implementation of SDGs. rapidly deteriorating fiscal space with below the requisite levels. Public All stakeholders should strive for full rising levels of debt. Today, there is still a revenue shortfalls are sizable, the pace transparency while documenting and gap between what the agendas demand of reform is slow, and one in five African coordinating their efforts. Accountability and what is workable on the ground. The countries does not raise enough in mechanisms at the continent-wide level ratification of the agenda and funding revenues to meet its basic state could leverage the mapping and frameworks at the country level remain functions. tracking of the goals. incomplete, as is the monitoring of progress – which remains largely Very slow or no action characterizes the Speeding up market integration will not voluntary. Voluntary national reporting development of National Financing only spur pockets of South-South schemes are incomprehensive, irregular Frameworks as stipulated in the Addis cooperation but also drive progress and don't always provide comparative Ababa Action Agenda. Also, external towards the SDGs. This report provides data. inflows continue to be constrained by a three-year reality check on SDG inward-looking policies and tight global progress and has benefitted from far- SDG data is thus scarce, and economic and financial conditions. r e a c h i n g c o n s u l t a t i o n w i t h incomprehensive and inconsistent where However, financial outflows – stakeholders. Its analysis and the next it exists. The majority of African countries particularly illicit financial flows – remain steps that it proposes should form the do not possess updated data for crucial large, and exceed each of the main basis for our shared journey. If we truly indicators such as poverty, health, financial inflows into Africa (ODA, work together, we can still leave no one nutrition, education, infrastructure; where remittances and FDI). behind. they do possess it, the latest available is from 2015. Internationally generated data The attainment of SDGs by African has proven insufficient to make up for this countries will not be business as usual. in assessing progress over the first three Africa's failure to attain SDGs will have Belay Begashaw, Ph.D. years. This has consequences: having no implications everywhere on the planet. Director General data undermines a country's capacity to Africa must step up, but shared establish SDG baselines and to track the pragmatic responsibility is also critical. performance of indicators to reinforce Traditional financial flows are key, as are evidence-based decision-making. Based external support for domestic revenue on data for some SDG indicators, there and statistical reforms. Political support has been notable progress towards only for statistics, backed by the requisite three goals: SDG 5 Gender equality, SDG financial instruments and resources, 13 Climate action and SDG 15 Life on remains the most significant factor for land. data revolution in Africa.
Where data exists, and with 12 years An annual data tracking system for remaining, progress on the other fourteen Addis Ababa Action Agenda is crucial, goals remains off-track and the goals are as is the establishment of Africa-based unlikely to be met if rapid and unified funds for social inclusion. Continent- action is not taken. For the people- based accountability mechanisms are centered goals, progress continues to be also needed, as well as support for outstripped by high population growth. existing mechanisms. An evidence- Africa's continued lack of demographic based understanding of the synergies of
5 APPOINTMENTS
Technologies, most recently as corporate more sustainable and inclusive home for Eutelsat announces senior vice president and the president of all humankind. The Better Satellite World appointment of Marie- its Communications Systems business Awards Dinner celebrates the enormous segment. Under his leadership, this contributions of the satellite industry to Sophie Rouzaud as business segment reported significant the economy, safety, security, Chief Human growth in both revenue and operating governance, development and health of income. Mr. Ivers also held previous the planet – and the outsized role that Resources Officer management roles at Harris Corporation UK-based companies play in the market. and Raytheon Co. He has an MBA from Eutelsat Communications announces the University of Rochester's Simon Shane McCarthy joins the appointment of Marie-Sophie School of Business and a bachelor of Rouzaud as Group Chief Human science in electrical engineering and Irdeto as Chief Resources Officer. Her new position mathematics from the University of Operating Officer, will be effective from early 2020. Marie- California, Irvine. Sophie Rouzaud will become a Video Entertainment member of the Group's Executive SSPI UK names Committee as of the same date. Marie- Goonhilly's Ian Jones Irdeto announced that Shane McCarthy Sophie Rouzaud has an expansive has been appointed to the role of Chief knowledge of Eutelsat, having served as the 2019 Space & Operating Officer for its video as the company's Head of International Satellite Personality of entertainment business. A developer by Human Resources since 2017. background, Mr. McCarthy previously the Year held a number of roles at Pace, including She has more than twenty years of the President of the International experience, with a focus on Business, where he achieved strong international team management, talent SSPI UK, the UK Chapter of the Space growth on the way to building a near USD building and corporate change. She and Satellite Professionals International $1B business. In his new role at Irdeto, has spent her entire professional organisation is pleased to announce Ian he will be responsible for defining the career working for high-tech Jones, CEO of Goonhilly, as the U.K. strategy and overseeing execution within companies: after holding several Space & Satellite Personality of 2019. Ian Irdeto's video entertainment business. senior positions at Alcatel-Lucent, she has been instrumental in the revival of Mr. McCarthy has spent the past five joined Technicolor in 2011. Her Goonhilly Earth station as a multi-faceted years as an entrepreneur and consultant responsibilities included driving the space hub. He joins past winners of the in the media and entertainment and integration of employees during award: Catherine Mealing-Jones, Magali technology sectors. He previously spent Technicolor's acquisition of Cisco's Vaissiere and Greg Wyler. We will nine years at Pace and worked for Cisco Connected Objects business unit. celebrate the award during the SSPI prior to this. With his extensive industry Marie-Sophie Rouzaud will succeed Better Satellite World Award Dinner experience, Mr. McCarthy will play an Antoine Mingalon who, after 3 years at taking place on 2 December in London. instrumental role in further developing Eutelsat, has made the decision to Irdeto's global leadership position within leave the company to pursue other Betty Bonnardel, SSPI UK President the media and entertainment industry. professional projects as of early 2020. says: “Especially as we celebrate 50 “With my technical and media industry years of Apollo's Moon mission this year, background, I have been at the forefront Communications & in which Goonhilly was associated, Ian of the evolution of the industry which Jones seemed the natural winner of the continues at pace, making secure Power Industries SSPI UK Personality of 2019 award.” content delivery of paramount appoints Andrew Ivers importance across the globe,” said Ian Jones says: “It's such an honour to Shane McCarthy, Chief Operating Chief Operating receive this award. Being recognised Officer, Video Entertainment, Irdeto. Officer from within our amazing profession is “With an already thriving business very special. Of course it's not possible to providing security to many of the major build a company alone. Many people players across the video entertainment Communications & Power Industries were responsible for building Goonhilly space, this is a very exciting time to join (CPI) has announced that Andrew C. long before I came along. More recently Irdeto and help take the business to the Ivers will be joining the company as its the wonderful team at Goonhilly have next level.” new chief operating officer, effective transformed the site again and I hope that “As our market and customers evolve, November 4, 2019. Mr. Ivers will report our best achievements are yet to come. it's important that Irdeto evolves in directly to Bob Fickett, president and Goonhilly has an extraordinary way of tandem to continue to ensure optimal chief executive officer of CPI, and will touching and inspiring many people. Just security and service to our current and be responsible for implementing the as it did to me a few years ago. I hope that future customers,” said Doug Lowther, company's growth strategies and everyone with a connection to Goonhilly Chief Executive Officer, Irdeto. “The helping lead operational excellence can feel that they have contributed in their creation of the COO role is designed to initiatives. own way to this award." do this while advancing Irdeto's global business. Shane McCarthy brings a Mr. Ivers is an experienced manager SSPI's Better Satellite World Awards wealth of experience to Irdeto which will and engineer in the electronic programme celebrates innovation in the be invaluable in further accelerating our components and subsystems industry, space and satellite sector by honouring progress.” and a seasoned veteran of defense three established companies as well as and communications companies. disruptors globally for their role on Prior to joining CPI, Mr. Ivers served as helping make our world a more an executive for 18 years at L3 prosperous, healthier, better-educated, IN THE NEWS
C-Band Alliance Space Tech Expo Europe defines market proposes to clear 300 drivers for satellite communications MHz of spectrum for nationwide 5G deployment
The C-Band Alliance (CBA) announced today that it will commit to clear 300 MHz of C-band spectrum to support fast 5G wireless deployment throughout the continental U.S. In an updated filing with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the CBA detailed that the 300 MHz of spectrum includes a 20-MHz guard band to protect existing satellite services from 5G interference. Further enhancing its plan to clear spectrum quickly, the first tranche—which clears spectrum within 18 months of an FCC order in 46 top metropolitan zones—is now increased to 120 MHz, inclusive of the 20-MHz guard band. The second tranche of the remaining spectrum will be made available within 36 months from a CBA-led The satellite communications auction, providing cleared spectrum throughout a n d g r o u n d s e g m e n t o p e r a t o r s a n d Martin reckons there is a the entire continental U.S. industries are at a critical m a n u f a c t u r e r s . D r. larger opportunity for As it completed the work necessary to enhance its stage of development as Siegbert Martins CTO satellite communications. proposal, the CBA collaborated closely with U.S. market needs change. The and Head of Development “I'm discovering a lack of broadcasters and programmers that serve nearly main driver for advancement a n d D e s i g n a t awareness about space 120 million American homes via the C-band. This comes from increased Te s a t S p a c e c o m , a capability among network work included analyzing the potential use by some c u s t o m e r d e m a n d . p a y l o a d e q u i p m e n t suppliers and in the public customers of technologies such as advanced Customers would like greater developer for satellites, in many conversations. modulation, single format transport and advanced flexibility and autonomy in the highlights this: “The main Satellite technology can video compression, including High Efficiency services they can use, and challenge is driven by close the gaps of data Video Coding (HEVC). Each of these technologies simultaneously there is an market demand. It means connectivity in rural areas improves the efficiency of satellite video delivery, increased demand for over- meeting cost targets so and is part of realising the allowing the same video content to be transmitted the-top (OTT) media services t h a t s a t e l l i t e digital roadmap. Finally, over less spectrum. The CBA proposal commits to such as subscription-based communication systems with a view to satellites implement these technology upgrades at no cost video on demand and a need become a real opportunity becoming part of the 5G to those satellite customers implementing them. to transfer the large amount of a n d c o m p l e m e n t network, a link between The CBA remains committed to ensuring that data collected by the t e r r e s t r i a l d a t a terrestrial operators and existing customers continue to enjoy the quality of satellites. c o m m u n i c a t i o n satellite network operators service they experience now, with no interference This creates challenges and networks.” Despite these is essential and has to be from 5G services deployed in the future. The CBA opportunities for satellite growing market needs, Dr built up.” member companies will maintain continuity of all current C-band customer services and maintain the value of the continental U.S. C-band video distribution neighborhoods. Tanzania Telecommunications signs deal In its most recent ex parte filing, the CBA updated its commitments to its customers, including on key with Burundi Backbone Systems elements such as the transition plan, hardware selection, and interference detection processes. T h e T a n z a n i a portfolio in both east b o t h o f w h i c h a r e The CBA also affirms its commitment to covering Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s Africa and the Southern members of the East all other costs of the transition, such as the African Development African Community along required filtering of earth stations throughout the Corporation (TTCL) has signed an agreement with C o m m u n i t y r e g i o n with Kenya, Uganda, continental U.S. as outlined in previous CBA Rwanda and South submissions and the order of eight new satellites B u r u n d i B a c k b o n e (SADC). Sudan. from U.S. manufacturers. S y s t e m s ( B B S ) , a Kindamba said the TTCL The CBA's proposal is the only one that balances consortium of Burundian will provide first class the public interest in rapid 5G network deployment t e l e c o m s o p e r a t o r s b r o a d b a n d i n t e r n e t throughout the continental U.S. with the planning a national fibre- services in Burundi requirement by the FCC and C-band user optic network, to provide through stations in community to maintain satellite delivery for current b r o a d b a n d i n t e r n e t Kabanga and Manyovu in services, providing continued operating efficiency connectivity to the east the border region of and quality. African nation, Xinhua Kigoma. He added that Speaking on behalf of the C-Band Alliance, reported. The USD 6 as a result of the Intelsat CEO Stephen Spengler said, “Throughout m i l l i o n d e a l w i l l b e agreement, landlocked this nearly two-year process, we have sought to implemented over the next Burundi will now be work collaboratively as peers, to be responsive to decade, said TTCL chief connected across the the goals of U.S. policy makers seeking spectrum world and that access to for 5G, and to work closely with our customers to e x e c u t i v e protect their transmissions and understand their WaziriKindamba, adding new internet services will current and future network needs. that it will also allow TTCL "ease and improve to broaden its business business" between the neighbouring countries, INDUSTRY INSIGHT
How satellite broadband can foster aviation safety
In the aviation industry, satellite communication provides voice and data service that allows ATC - Pilot communication, aircraft-to aircraft , air traffic control units and airline operations centre when outside coverage of conventional grounds radar and VHF (LOS) stations, according to Aliemeke Godwin
Safety is the state of being “safe”, the condition of being protected from harm or other non-desirable outcomes. Safety can also refer to the control of identified or potential hazards in order to achieve an acceptable level of risk. Safety is the condition of a steady state of an organization or place doing what it is supposed to do to obtain maximum level of production.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority as a regulatory body ensures aviation security and safety for regularity of flight and economic growth of the industry. According to Wikipedia “Aviation safety means the state of an aviation system or organization in which risks associated with aviation activities related to or in Beyond line of sight (BLOS). LOS has to hear worse than a bat. The aircraft flies direct support of the operations of aircraft, remained a major setback to aviation blindly in the airspace where no parking are reduced and controlled to an safety and security. Communication, space exists and without any means of acceptable level”. LOS or BLOS is a major element that communication. What a suicide fosters aviation safety because the mission?. Aviation safety has to do with the theory, aircraft needs to be guided step by practice, investigation and categorization step on every single movement or of flight failures, and the prevention of changes it initiates through its flight Satellite communication in such failures through regulation, path as prescribed in the flight plan to education and training. and fro the destination aerodrome, Aviation domestic or international. Satellite communication (BLOS) Without guidance through reliable provides voice and data service that Air travel safety issues allows ATC-Pilot communication, Aircraft are regarded as the fastest and means of communication, the aircraft is as good as a bird though with wings aircraft-to aircraft , air traffic control units safest means of transportation and its and airline operations centre when impact on the life of humans is to fly yet without eyes to see and ears fundamentally essential. It is a necessity to carefully consider and be mindful of any conditions that may influence or jeopardize the safety of flight. In the past, rate of aircraft accidents and incidents have been on the increase even when traffic growth was low compared to what it is today.
Over the years, causative factors have been traced to aircraft design, engine malfunction, human factors and communication failures consequential to restrictive regulations. Communications coverage was also limited to line of sight (LOS) communication and errors have been considered as a major factor in air mishaps. Until the introduction of satellite communication (World-wide coverage- INDUSTRY INSIGHT
and speed to and from the aircraft.
ESIM (Earth Stations in Motion)
ESIM is a stop-gap technology suggested to be deployed and is expected to cope with increasing demand of satellite broadband capabilities in the ever increasing airspace congestion.
Earth stations in motion communicate with geostationary satellite orbit (GSO) systems operating in the fixed-satellite service (FSS) and operate on platforms in motion in the frequency ranges 17.7 – 20.2 GHz and 27.5 – 30 Ghz. Historically, outside coverage of conventional sophistications in aircraft design, communication services to mobile grounds radar and VHF (LOS) stations. corresponding increased improvements platforms were usually provided by S a t e l l i t e s e r v i c e s h a v e b e e n in aircraft design & engine efficiency has satellite systems in the mobile satellite complemented by improved aircraft further heightened the level of airspace systems (MSS) using relatively low navigation capabilities allowing for not capacity due to congestion in our cloudy f r e q u e n c y b a n d s e . g . ( t h e only reduced separations in non-radar skies. 1.5GHz,1.6GHz,2.1GHz and 2.4GHz) space, but also the introduction of more bands. complex operational solutions such as As airspace demand is increasing, there “in-trail climb procedure”, “use preferred must be a comparable increase in The narrow frequency bandwidths routes” and track following of aircraft in- satellite broadband to the cockpit and available limit the data rates that can be flight , etc. cabin for the comfort of passengers and achieved, which range from a few Kbit/s reliability of services. Availability of to around 700Kbit/s in a single channel. SATCOM and increasing bandwidth through deployment of The typical data rates currently provided Satellite communication is the game by the terminals operating in networks airline connectivity changer. serving ESIM are around 100 Mbit/s. Satellite communication has successfully Data rates may increase to support been integrated into the overall Given the fact that satellite connectivity higher broadband demand or be reduced telecommunications market and has a exists in present day, it is limited in band for application using smaller earth station variety of applications. width and other attributes and doesn't antennas while still supporting much Satellite technologies are more and more facilitate the required degree of higher data rates than are available over diverse and pervasive but they all rely on functionality than newer satellite existing MSS systems. the same core element : the availability of broadband can deliver. Connected radio frequencies that can be deployed aircrafts results in greater situational ESIM as a safety fostering without harmful interference. To ensure awareness that could result in lower the availability of interference free measure separation between aircraft without When aircrafts or vessels are across the communication, the International compromising safety. Telecommunication Union (ITU) brings oceans, they are out of reach of terrestrial together member States every four year networks. An ESIM system can resolve called World Radio Conference to this challenge by providing continuous deliberate on new telecommunication How satellite broadband can broadband connectivity for passengers technologies and provide spectrum foster aviation safety and crew members. requirements and the radio regulations Increased connectivity in airplanes for telecom products. could increase efficiency and reduce E S I M p r o v i d e s b r o a d b a n d environmental effects. The aviation communications on the largest cruise The ITU is guided by an international industry is experiencing a step-change, ships for multiple purposes ranging from treaty governing the use, application, and technology is enabling greater ship operations to crew communications. allotment, allocation and assignment of efficiency, safety, planning, visibility and The number of maritime vessels with a radio-frequency spectrum. The radios responsiveness in the industry. Satellite broadband connection by satellite grew operating as LOS and BLOS and the technology is essential if the industry is by almost 25% btw 2012,2013 and 2014, associated satellite orbits(both to meet the global demand of the this rapid growth has created greater geostationary and non-geostationary), increasing passengers. demand for spectrum for ESIM. When form the telecom products and services information and communication that the ITU allocates specific The International Air Transport infrastructure is down in natural disasters, frequencies for various space and earth Association(IATA) forecasts a doubling ESIM can be vital. stations applications. of passengers by 2023 to 7.2 billion and The ITU-Radio Regulations also contains doubling of aircrafts to 40,000. Digital detailed technical provisions and advancements will continue to be an regulatory procedures to ensure efficient enabler across the value chain of air use of spectrum resources. The ever travel, spanning pre-departure to post- increasing passenger demand in air landing. Satellites provides enhanced transportation has engendered robust degree of broadband capacity, reliability IN THE NEWS
Eutelsat launches an integrated IoT Spain's national IoT network goes live! connectivity service via satellite Everynet BV, the leading (LNS). businesses to undertake their Low Power Wide Area Redexia is the first service IoT pilots with Redexia's (LPWA) network operator provider to take advantage of production quality connectivity On the eve of the IOT Solutions World and technology pioneer, this shared IoT network service, providing a faster, Congress in Barcelona, Eutelsat announces availability of the infrastructure. Co-founded by l o w e r c o s t a n d m o r e Communications announces the s h a r e d L o R a W A N ™ Alex Bryszkowski & Juan representative result than launch of a pioneering satellite-based infrastructure, ready to serve E d e r r a , w h o p r e v i o u s attempting to build private IoT connectivity service: Eutelsat IoT the ultra-low-cost IoT market founded Vozelia & Labelium networks. Together Redexia & FIRST. Having recently unveiled its across Spain. respectively, Redexia has the Everynet are on hand to assist ELO constellation of nanosatellites in l o c a l k n o w l e d g e a n d customers through their pilots Low Earth Orbit, dedicated to the Following the successful experience to lead their and to then scale up to full Internet of Things, Eutelsat has taken deployment of pilot networks connectivity customers production within Redexia's further steps towards its ambition to in Madrid and Barcelona, t o w a r d s s u c c e s s f u l service. With the Everynet become a leading satellite IoT already covering a quarter of implementations, with a network expansion underway, it company through the launch of the country's population, particular focus on water & is also possible to prioritize Eutelsat IoT FIRST: a fully integrated Everynet is now embarking gas metering, smart cities, deployment in specific regions IoT connectivity service operating in on the expansion phase to industry 4.0 and the asset where a compelling use-case tracking. Ku-band via Eutelsat's geostationary full national coverage with a exists. satellites. Targeted companies include dense network of carrier “We are delighted to go to “This is a very huge opportunity selected satellite service providers, grade gateways. Operating in a neutral-host model, market standing shoulder-to- for Everynet and Redexia to telecom operators and IoT service Everynet manages all the shoulder with Redexia” says work together. LoRaWAN is the providers. At a price point proposed on operations & maintenance of Antonio Terlizzi, SVP of ideal technology for a lot of use- a par with cellular-based IoT the radio access network Global Sales for Everynet BV. cases, but specifically for water, connectivity services, Eutelsat IoT (RAN) through their 365x24 “Combining Everynet's gas and light metering. Says FIRST integrates satellite terminals, network operations centre e x p e r t i s e f o r n e t w o r k Alex Bryszkowski, Redexia co- space and ground segments, (NOC), and makes this operations, with Redexia's founder. “Already managing a packaged within an API-based service s h a r e d i n f r a s t r u c t u r e deep experience in IoT pipeline of around 5 million delivery framework. available to all service connectivity services, we are devices for Spain, we are providers in the region, each poised to lead the digital confident that this strong With this product, Eutelsat is further purchasing bulk wholesale transformation of Spain's a l l i a n c e b e t w e e n b o t h addressing the connectivity challenges connectivity leases and industries” companies is what the Spanish of industries spanning across retail, o p e r a t i n g t h e i r o w n With the network now live, market needs in terms of IoT banking and security, through to LoRaWAN network server there is no better time for connectivity.” energy, mining and agriculture, which seek a cost-effective and reliable IoT solution to connect their fixed assets, irrespective of their location. Speedcast upgrades major Norwegian fleet's
Eutelsat IoT FIRST also acts as an IoT VSAT connectivity backhaul service, enabling telecom operators to connect IoT base stations and gateways to their core network. Speedcast International Focusing currently on treating fixed Limited announced that it has assets, as of next year Eutelsat will signed a multi-year fleet contract extension with a then expand its portfolio of IoT services major Norwegian ship owner to incorporate the connectivity of to deliver significantly m o b i l e a s s e t s . T h e g r o u n d increased VSAT connectivity infrastructure designed to serve along with the latest Iridium Eutelsat IoT FIRST consists of a Certus back-up solution. network of IoT-specific hubs hosted at In addition to the provision of teleports across the globe. These hubs Global VSAT and L-Band are monitored and controlled 24/7 by connectivity, Speedcast will Eutelsat's service delivery team from install its industry-leading Turin, Italy. SIGMA Gateway network management platform across VSAT service for increased come."”We look forward to the Luis Jimenez-Tunon, Group Executive the entire fleet of over 40 bandwidth and faster speeds," roll out of Speedcast's VSAT Vice President Data Business of vessels. SIGMA Gateway said Athina Vezyri, Executive connectivity solution onboard Eutelsat “The reliability and boundless s e a m l e s s l y m a n a g e s Vice President of Maritime for our fleet," said the customer's reach that satellite offers means that it Speedcast's global VSAT, L- Speedcast. Global Fleet Support Systems will have an integral role in the IoT Band, 4G/LTE and Wi-Fi “The upgrade will increase M a n a g e r . " I n c r e a s e d sector and in this regard, I am delighted services, bringing powerful operational effectiveness and bandwidth and enhanced capabilities to support vessels to launch “Eutelsat IoT FIRST”, named facilitate the customer's vision connectivity management with advanced technology in the honour of this service being a of improved welfare for s e r v i c e s d e p l o y e d v i a requirements. onboard crew, while SIGMA Speedcast's SIGMA Gateway pioneer of its kind and Eutelsat's " T h i s i s a l o n g - t i m e Gateway will support the will increase our fleet's inaugural solution in its ambitious IoT Speedcast customer with a c o m p a n y ' s n e t w o r k operational efficiency and roadmap.” desire to take advantage of management requirements — ensure improved service Speedcast's high-speed today and in the years to management on board each vessel." AFRICAN REPORT Egypt and the "space race”
Egypt has decided to join the world's space club, and the decisions to form Egypt's Space Agency and to build EgyptSat-A are significant steps to achieve this strategic goal.
Egypt has decided to join the world space club built by the Russian RSC Energia. components for EgyptSat-A, compared to and the decisions to form Egypt's Space The letters were signed by Sahar Nasr, Egyptsat-2 where 60 percent of the Agency and to build EgyptSat – A, are Egypt's minister of investment and components were manufactured in Egypt. significant steps to achieve this strategic goal. international cooperation, and the Chinese Egypt and Russia intended to launch the The Egyptian satellite program has both ambassador to Egypt, Song Aiguo. During new Egyptian satellite by 2019, from a scientific and military implications. Egypt Egyptian President, Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, visit Russian space base in Baikonur, highlighted the civilian aspects of the in China in September 2018, the two countries Kazakhstan. satellites, but the EgyptSat-2 satellite was signed the agreement to manufacture the designed to provide high-resolution imagery Egyptian satellite, as well as a framework The Egyptian space program agreement for future projects in the coming for the Egyptian military and other Egypt's first space program was initiated in three years. government agencies in the country. The 1960 and was subsequently shelved The previous Egyptian satellite EgyptSat-2 decision to stick with a Russian manufacturer numerous times until its first independent was launched in April 2014, and it was lost in and China for the Egyptian remote sensing budget was adopted in 2000 to fund space 2015. The satellite was taking pictures of the satellite might be more about Egyptian research, following the launch of the planet in the visible and infrared spectrum with geopolitics than just the need for a reliable country's first satellite NileSat1 in 1998. panchromatic and multispectral modes. satellite imaging system. The Russian Sputnik agency reported in According to Russian press reports, April 2015 that Egypt aims to develop its EgyptSat-A will have improved performance The EgyptSat-A project space program and Russia could be a capabilities compared to the failed EgyptSat- On August 13, 2018, Egypt and China signed strategic partner to establish a specialized 2. In particular, the replacement satellite will mutual letters for the implementation of a space agency in Egypt. President Abdel feature an improved electro-optical system satellite named EgyptSat-A, according to an Fatah El-Sisi also signed in February 2015 and onboard control systems, high-speed official statement by the Ministry of a memorandum of understanding in the radio links, and solar panels with increased Investment and International Cooperation. space field with his counterpart Vladimir efficiency. The Chinese grant hits $US 45 million for the Putin. RSC Energia will produce the vast majority of remote sensing Earth observation satellite The Egyptian satellite program is run under AFRICAN REPORT
the National Authority for Remote Sensing & Space Sciences (NARSS). in Ukraine. The first The NARSS defined the Egypt Space satellite EgyptSat-1 was Program vision: launched from Baikonur on a. Egypt to join the Space age through April 17, 2007. However, gradual manufacturing of small research the contact with it was lost and remote sensing satellites, acquiring i n 2 0 1 0 . M u b a r a k ' s t e c h n o l o g i c a l k n o w l e d g e a n d government kept the capabilities, and building required scientific setback secret for infrastructure to achieve self-capability three months, before for Egypt to design & manufactures its d e t a i l s l e a k e d o u t . own small satellites. E g y p t i a n s p e c i a l i s t s b. Utilizing the space technologies & claimed then that this was application to develop the scientific an experimental project research and technologies development with an expected satellite's in Egypt and to serve the national service life of no more than developments plans. c. Establishing a three years. scientific and research base for advanced electric engines using xenon gas as industries in Egypt. The EgyptSat-1 was capable of propellant to enter its operational orbit and to photographing sites on earth and its conduct orbit corrections. According to its Egypt's Space Agency launch came after Egypt awarded a tender official specifications, the satellite could Egypt's House of Representatives to Ukraine to construct the satellite. Under discern details as small as one meter on the approved in December 2017, a law to the agreement, 60 Egyptian scientists Earth's surface. In addition to regular photos, establish Egypt's Space Agency. The law were trained by Ukraine, with the aim of the satellite's optics could produce infrared aims to push Egypt forward in the vital Egypt developing the capability to operate imagery. area of space and satellite technology in a the satellite independently. way that should serve the country's The optical imager supported various modes national security and development Although Egypt continued working with the of operation including single-scene imaging, objectives. The law is based on a 25-page Ukrainian KB Yuzhnoe design bureau on a route imaging, mapping, and stereo imagery report prepared by parliament's follow-on project, Cairo received a bid from acquisition. In April 2015, the EgyptSat-2 committees on education and scientific Moscow to supply a state-of-the-art "eye in completely failed in orbit but there was no research, telecommunications and the sky". In 2009, Egypt awarded a official confirmation or denial from the official information technology, defense and contract to Russia for the development of a sources. EgyptSat-A is being built as a national security, the budget, and high-resolution imaging satellite. In replacement for EgyptSat-2. legislative and constitutional affairs. The Moscow, the project was officially handled Egyptian Space Agency (ESA) will be a by Rosoboroneksport, a government- Egypt and France space Cairo-based public organization that will owned company specialized in exports of have branches in different parts of Egypt. military technology. cooperation Egypt is negotiating a deal with Thales Alenia The agency will be affiliated with the However, the actual development of the Space (TAS) to purchase an observation president of the republic, having financial, spacecraft was delegated to RKK Energia satellite and a military telecommunications a d m i n i s t r a t i v e a n d t e c h n i c a l based in Korolev near Moscow and satellite. The contract amounts to independence to be able to do its job in a renown around the world for its leading role approximately one billion euros for the two professional way. The agency will be in the nation's manned space flight. RKK satellites. mainly responsible for drawing up a Energia's imaging satellite was originally national space technology program known as E-Star, but it was eventually re- Summary within the next few years. It will be christened Egyptsat-2. The development Egypt has decided to join the world's space primarily focused on launching self-made of the satellite coincided with a major club, and the decisions to form Egypt's satellites that should serve the political upheaval in Egypt; however, the Space Agency and to build EgyptSat-A are development and national security nation's military clearly managed to fully significant steps to achieve this strategic objectives. fund the project. goal. The EgyptSat-A satellite aims to support Egypt's "presence in space," to Egyptian Space Agency will be set up on EgyptSat-2 establish the presence of Egyptian scientists and researchers in outer space and to Cairo-Suez Road (in Egypt's space and A Soyuz-U rocket carrying an Egyptian increase new investment opportunities and satellite city). Egypt hopes that in seven observation satellite, EgyptSat-2, was enhance developmental projects. Egypt years Egypt's space and satellite launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome currently owns two communication technology city will contribute at least 10 in Kazakhstan on, April 16, 2014. Russia satellites, NileSat 1 and NileSat 2. Egypt percent to the national income. trained Egyptian engineers to control the highlighted the civilian aspects of the In January 2018, Egypt's president Abdel satellite from a ground station near Cairo. satellite, but the EgyptSat-2 satellite was Fattah El-Sisi ratified a law establishing The development and launch campaign for designed to provide high-resolution imagery the country's first Egyptian space agency, Egyptsat-2 has been conducted largely in for the Egyptian military and other aiming to develop and transfer space secret. Only one visual of the operational government agencies in the country. The science and technology into Egypt. spacecraft was released to the public by its decision to stick with a Russian manufacturer RKK Energia, after the manufacturer and China for the Egyptian successful launch. The satellites of Egypt remote sensing satellite might be more about Egyptian geopolitics than just the need The EgyptSat-1 The Russian-built Egyptsat-2 satellite was for a reliable satellite imaging system. In 2007, the Egyptian government made designed to provide high-resolution its first attempt to acquire its own high- imagery for the Egyptian military and other resolution surveillance satellite with the government agencies in the country. The launch of the Egyptsat-1 spacecraft built satellite was reportedly equipped with NEWS ANALYSIS
ITU’ WRC-19 Conference to play pivotal role in tomorrow's digital environment
With more than four billion people still offline without access to the extraordinary benefits of the online world, ITU' WRC'19 agenda highlights infrastructural roll out to improve the lives of people everywhere, ahead of this year's conference.
Egypt's Sharm El-Sheikh will host the 38th World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC), to be held for the first time in 20 years outside the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) headquarters in Geneva. The event will address requirements for some of the leading edge technological innovations set to play a pivotal role in tomorrow's digital economy with immense implications for the trillion-dollar telecommunication and ICT industry. It will be preceded by the Radiocommunication Assembly 2019 (RA- 19), 21 – 25 October 2019.More than 3,500 participants from 140 countries, and more than 50 ministers and deputy ministers from around the world, will participate in the conference, in addition to more than 50 companies and international organisations working in the field of telecommunications. T h e W o r l d R a d i o c o m m u n i c a t i o n Conference, held every three to four years, is mandated to review and revise the Radio Regulations, the international treaty governing the use of radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits. WRC-19 will facilitate the management of scarce orbit/spectrum resources in the interest of end-users, with global implications for both policy-makers and the industry. Radiocommunication Assemblies (RA) are responsible for the structure, programme, and working methods for the development and approval of radiocommunication-related Among a host of other items on the agenda, R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s , R e p o r t s a n d the conference will update and modernize u s e d f o r t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s , Handbooks. They normally convene every the Global Maritime Distress and Safety e m e r g e n c y / p u b l i c s a f e t y three or four years and precede World System (GMDSS) and expand geographical c o m m u n i c a t i o n s , i n t e l l i g e n t Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs). coverage, including in Polar regions, ensure transportation systems, maritime Over 3500 participants from 193 ITU that Earth exploration and meteorological- surveillance, and environmental Member States along with 267 members of satellite systems continue to provide monitoring. the ITU Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) environmental monitoring, prediction and ?O t h e e r s i n c l u d e s f a c i l i t a t i n g representing international organizations, mitigation of the negative effects caused by radiocommunication systems between equipment manufacturers, network climate change as well as monitor the earth's train and trackside systems to meet the operators and industry forums who attend as resources, consider additional frequencies demands of a high-speed railway observers. for earth stations in motion (ESIM) environment and provide effective communicating from aircraft, maritime communication for portable and mobile Unlocking human potential with vessels and land vehicles with satellites on computer-based equipment over the geostationary orbit (GSO), enhance the Wireless access systems, including technology of the future international regulatory framework to radio local area networks (WiFi). T h e W o r l d R a d i o c o m m u n i c a t i o n improve satellite broadband connectivity ?The conference will also unlock great Conference will facilitate new innovations in from new non-geostationary satellite potential for human progress advancing mobile technology, identifying additional systems composed of multiple, multi- many of the United Nations Sustainable frequency bands for the future development satellite constellations, as well as allocate Development Goals (SDGs). It will of International Mobile Telecommunications frequency bands for H?i?gh-Altitude Platform provide the tools for effective climate (IMT) and further enabling the rollout of IMT- Stations (HAPs) – aircraft positioned in the action, forge pathways for better access 2020 networks, otherwise known as 5G. stratosphere for very-long-duration flights to health care, foster sustainable agricultural practices and reduce poverty and hunger, improve energy efficiency, facilitate Intelligent Transport Systems and machine-to-machine communications, make cities smart and communities more sustainable, foster safer travel on land, on air and at sea, and allow countries to participate in the digital economy by providing access to faster and more affordable broadband connectivity, especially in currently underserved communities. IN THE NEWS
Satellite firm ND SATCOM acquires TECNA Suarl in Dakar, connects 700 Senegal schools to internet ND SATCOM, the premier Satellite broadband firm, YahClick, has supplier of and integrator for said it had connected over 700 schools in i n n o v a t i v e s a t e l l i t e Nigeria to the internet in the last two years. communication systems and YahClick Vice President for Sales in solutions, announced the Africa, Michael Brown, stated that the acquisition of TECNA located broadband connectivity was in in Dakar, Senegal. collaboration with the Universal Service This important strategic move Provision Fund (USPF). will further enhance outreach Brown said the Federal Government and interaction between the company and its customers, sponsored an annual grant that paid for Brigadier Michael Ogbonna Agu, rtd the connectivity, as there were many of partners and the leading the schools that did not have the means to communication companies in get connected. He said that the the West Africa region. TECNA connection was made possible through Suarl has been renamed ND the company's cost-effective satellite SatCom SENEGAL. Charly Nakache, who brings a connectivity. With new business growing for several of our existing wealth of industry experience The vice-president explained that the firm ND SATCOM in West Africa, the customers and provides an in satellite communications, had border-to-border coverage in Nigeria need to establish local presence excellent base where we can has been appointed as general and was seeing that the increase in became vital. share our latest technology and manager of ND SatCom connectivity translated into real benefits, “We see very positive potential insights. With our new Director SENEGAL and – together with particularly for remote areas in Nigeria. for our satellite communication Charly Nakache, our customers his highly-motivated team of According to him, YahClick's connectivity solutions here," said Alexander and partners in the region can s a l e s a n d t e c h n i c a l has benefited the civil service, healthcare Mueller-Gastell, CEO of ND e x p e c t e x c e l l e n t professionals – will be and, in particular, education. “We are SATCOM. "This decision to responsiveness, collaboration responsible to manage the day making immense contribution. acquire TECNA underscores and tailored solutions that meet to day business in the region From a government partnership this potential and the opportunity their unique communications and expand the reach of ND perspective, we are very active with the to expand further afield. needs.” S a t C o m . Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) The office location is close to in its goal to improve connectivity and access to information. “Access to information and services in rural and Ethiopia welcomes first dedicated TV platform, undeserved areas of the country is of course very important for learning. “So, Ethiosat we are working with our partners to find more solutions and how to continue For years, Ethiopian TV mix of content. By migrating audience reach. servicing them with the solution that works viewers have had to navigate the most popular Ethiopian This will foster healthy and for the both of us,” Brown said. The vice- t h r o u g h a p l e t h o r a o f TV channels to a new location growing advertising markets, president said rural areas had less multinational content in a on SES's satellite, we've which will result in a greater Internet connection because the variety of foreign languages in created an Ethiopian-only TV variety of content, and more traditional terrestrial-based operators – order to locate their favourite offering, that also delivers a localised content.” G l o b a l S y s t e m f o r M o b i l e channels. That changes today variety of channels in HD, a To access Ethiosat direct-to- communications (GSM) operators – with the launch of Ethiosat – first in Ethiopia.” home (DTH), Ethiopian TV would not want to go to such areas as the first-ever dedicated Fissehazion added that this is viewers must have their there were no commercial benefits. Ethiopian TV platform to host also a great time for the respective local satellite According to him, it is very difficult for Ethiopia's most popular local millions of homes in Ethiopia antenna installer change the GSM operators to have solutions in an channels. This has been made that currently do not receive position of their antenna. This area that does not have connectivity possible by agreements TV services to bring TV sets will allow them to receive the because it is too expensive.. “The beauty between the Association of i n t o t h e i r h o m e . “ F o r content from SES's NSS-12 of satellite is that it has instant connectivity Ethiopian Broadcasters Ethiopians looking to buy a satellite. and we can cover everywhere. And that is ( A E B ) , t h e E t h i o p i a n new TV set and receive “SES is supporting every our strongest selling point. There is no Broadcasting Corporation content from the dedicated TV aspect of this launch and other connectivity mechanism that can (EBC), and the world's leading n e i g h b o u r h o o d , w e providing on-the-ground connect in those areas. satellite operator, SES. recommend purchasing an services to ensure the success “We are bringing faster broadband speed HD TV whenever possible, as of Ethiosat, which includes with our new satellite. We are constantly Ethiosat is hosted on SES's this will allow for a higher training local installers to reducing prices, we are extending our NSS-12 satellite at 57 degrees picture quality.” correctly repoint the satellite footprint by our distribution partners to be East and delivers over 30 dishes of each TV household to available everywhere. channels for Ethiopian In addition, the launch of ensure a seamless migration. “We will have a large push out in the next audiences only, with 12 of Ethiosat will offer Ethiopians a E t h i o s a t i s b r i n g i n g a six to eight months into modern areas, those channels already in larger offering of both local completely new television where traditionally we did not have full High Definition (HD) quality. and relevant international experience to Ethiopians. coverage or partnerships,” he said. Brown A m m a n F i s s e h a z i o n , content in the future. said that YahClick was also involved in a Chairman of the AEB, said, Fissehazion said, “We believe We intend for the reliability and number of projects with the military to “Up until now, the majority of consolidating all Ethiopian TV quality of the new platform to ensure national coverage. He added that Ethiopia's content has been channels and broadcasting attract many new viewers, the company was having talks with the broadcast from an orbital them from one orbital position fuelling a bright future for the police force for connection and helping to location that also supplies will fuel growth in the Ethiopian media sector,” said change how they communicated with content to Middle Eastern and Ethiopian media sector, as Ferdinand Kayser, CEO of SES each other through the ecosystem. “So, North African countries, which local networks will now be Video. we are looking at different police stations, explains the often confusing able to easily expand their customs and border control and obviously IN THE NEWS
EUTELSAT 5 West B Tunisia's Telnet to launch first home-made mission successfully satellite in July 2020 launched Tunisia's first satellite, Tunisia's publicly traded added. On 1 April 2019, International Launch Services (ILS) has Challenge ONE, will be engineering and technology Telnet signed a contract with successfully inserted the EUTELSAT 5 West B launched in July 2020 from consulting company, Telnet the Russian operator of and the Mission Extension Vehicle-1 (MEV-1) the Russian-operated Group. commercial launches of s a t e l l i t e s i n t o t h e i r p l a n n e d Baikonur Cosmodrome in Soyuz-2 rockets, GK Launch Supersynchronous Transfer Orbits (SSTO) for south-central Kazakhstan “The satellite cost one million Services, for putting in space Eutelsat of Paris, France, and SpaceLogistics aboard the Russian Soyuz- Tunisian dinars (about Tunisia's first satellite in LLC of Dulles, Virginia. 2.1A, reports Tunis Afrique 349,825 U.S. dollars), while 2020. Challenge ONE in- The launch was the 97th ILS Proton mission Presse (TAP) news agency its global counterpart cost orbit operation will serve as a and over 420 Proton launches overall. It is the citing Telnet CEO Mohamed about 5 million Tunisian precursor mission for a eighth Eutelsat satellite launched on an ILS Frikha as saying. Challenge dinars (1.7 million U.S. constellation of 30 satellites. Proton and the first SpaceLogistics LLC ONE is a scientific research dollars),” Frikka said. satellite launched on an ILS Proton. It was also a n d t e c h n o l o g y “We were able to control Telnet Group has already the second ILS dual launch, and the first dual demonstrator satellite c o s t s t h a n k s t o t h e signed a tripartite deal with launch with two commercial satellites. offering new concepts in technological resources of two Russian companies, The satellites are both manufactured by information technologies the Telnet group, which SPUTNIX and GK Launch Northrop Grumman and based on the a n d t h e i r p r a c t i c a l opened up new horizons for Services, for the launch of GeoStar-2 (EUTELSAT 5 West B) and applications. the space technology sector the 30-satellite constellation GeoStar-3 (MEV-1) platforms. The two i n T u n i s i a t h r o u g h by 2023 for the development spacecraft, making up the Integrated Payload The small satellite is c o o p e r a t i o n w i t h o f a n e t w o r k o f I o T Stack, weighed 5,190 kg at liftoff, and were developed in-house by international partners,” he applications. separated 15 hours, 36 minutes (EUTELSAT 5 West B) and 15 hours, 54 minutes (MEV-1) after liftoff. Operators at the Northrop Grumman operations center in Dulles, Virginia acquired the spacecraft's first telemetry from Market for EO Data and services forecast to orbit shortly after separation. EUTELSAT 5 West B is a Ku-band satellite grow by 9% annually over next decade that will be located at 5° West, a key video neighborhood addressing predominantly In its new survey titled, leading authority on space multiple users are expected French, Italian and Algerian broadcast “Satellite-Based Earth a n d s a t e l l i t e - b a s e d to keep pricing affordable. markets. The new satellite will provide O b s e r v a t i o n M a r k e t a p p l i c a t i o n m a r k e t s , New services will also business continuity and improved quality for P r o s p e c t s t o 2 0 2 8 ” , forecasts that the market b e n e f i t f r o m c l o u d these markets via a Ku band payload of 35 Euroconsult, the world's for data and services c o m p u t i n g a n d A I equivalent 36 MHz transponders connected to leading authority on space d e r i v e d f r o m E a r t h technologies, which will three service areas. Switchable transponders a n d s a t e l l i t e - b a s e d observation (EO) satellites enable even higher data will also increase commercial flexibility. a p p l i c a t i o n m a r k e t s , is expected to grow by 9.4 consumption and faster Since its maiden flight in 1965, the workhorse forecasts that the market for percent each year for the analysis. Proton vehicle has demonstrated its data and services derived next ten years for a total In the report, Euroconsult versatility, maturity and performance to inject from Earth observation (EO) upside market value of quantifies the number of EO spacecraft into a wide variety of orbits for a satellites is expected to $12.1 billion by 2028. satellites launched and diverse customer base. The Proton Breeze M grow by 9.4 percent each “We expect that growth in revenue generated from vehicle is developed and built by Khrunichev year for the next ten years demand for Earth imagery 2009-2018 and compares Research and Production Space Center for a total upside market will be driven by a mix of t h o s e n u m b e r s t o (Khrunichev) of Moscow, Russia's premier value of $12.1 billion by d e f e n s e a n d n e w projections for 2019-2028. space industry manufacturer and majority 2028. commercial organizations,” The report also examines shareholder in ILS. “We expect that growth in said Alexis Conte, report the impact of this growth on Yohann Leroy, Deputy CEO and Chief demand for Earth imagery e d i t o r a n d S e n i o r downstream businesses Technical Officer at Eutelsat, said: “Eutelsat is will be driven by a mix of Consultant at Euroconsult. such as commercial data delighted to be back at Baikonur for another d e f e n s e a n d n e w “This will be supported by and value-added services successful launch. Our congratulations to ILS commercial organizations,” t h e a r r i v a l o f n e w and discusses nine sectors and Khrunichev for this top-class dual said Alexis Conte, report constellation operators with including nascent markets “stacked” launch! I would like also to thank our e d i t o r a n d S e n i o r lower-cost solutions, and emerging business partners Northrop Grumman and Airbus Consultant at Euroconsult. attracting new customers to models in eight regions. Defence and Space for their collaboration in “This will be supported by the one-meter resolution Euroconsult is a highly creating this technological gem, that will soon t h e a r r i v a l o f n e w market. At the same time, t r u s t e d i n d e p e n d e n t serve the French, Italian and Algerian markets constellation operators with some revenue from this research firm and its with the highest quality video broadcasting. I l o w e r - c o s t s o l u t i o n s , segment is expected to comprehensive market would also like to welcome aboard attracting new customers to move to the 50-centimeter s u r v e y o n t h e E a r t h EUTELSAT 5 West B the European GNSS the one-meter resolution and below resolution Observation industryis an Agency (GSA)'s EGNOS payload, set to market. At the same time, market, dominated by essential tool for business greatly improve the accuracy of geolocation some revenue from this traditional satellites.” planning and investment systems such as GPS or Galileo.” segment is expected to Market pull for these decisions. It examines “The launch and eventual docking of MEV- move to the 50-centimeter analytics is also coming strategic issues, trends and and below resolution f r o m t h e b u s i n e s s implications based on 1, the industry's first life extension vehicle, market, dominated by intelligence and insurance quantifiable data and demonstrates Northrop Grumman's and traditional satellites.” In its sectors, as well as from includes data on the past ten SpaceLogistics' ability to innovate and new survey titled, “Satellite- i n f r a s t r u c t u r e s i t e years for historical trends as deliver game changing technology. We are Based Earth Observation monitoring and precision well as projections and proud to have partnered with the ILS and Market Prospects to 2028”, agriculture. For these types growth rates for the coming Eutelsat teams who worked long and hard Euroconsult, the world's of services, subscriptions ten years. to ensure mission success,” and recurring sales to
7 IN THE NEWS
Thuraya highlights Datasat provides enhanced connectivity remote IoT to ferry fleet in Mediterranean Sea via SES connectivity at Datasat, a leading provider While on board, passengers passengers and we're OilComm 2019 of gateway internet services now will find not only delighted with the quality of via satellite, has partnered luxurious accommodation, service enabled by SES with SES Networks to bring fine dining, and a wide range Networks, which provides a Thuraya Telecommunications Company, the cutting-edge, end-to-end of activities, but also market- premium user experience.” mobile satellite services subsidiary of the Al Yah connectivity to a ferry fleet in l e a d i n g c o n n e c t i v i t y Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) is the Mediterranean Sea services. “The era of the “Like us, Datasatrecognises participating in OilComm 2019, the Houston- servicing passengers and connected ship is upon us, the enormous benefits that based event for oil and gas professionals to c a r g o i n m u l t i p l e and it's a change that will high-quality connectivity explore trending innovations in the destinations in Greece, Italy, r e v o l u t i o n i s e v e s s e l provides for passengers, communications and digital industries. At the Spain and Morocco, SES c o m m u n i c a t i o n s a n d seafarers and ships,” said two-day symposium, Thuraya will display its top announced recently operations,” said David Morten Hagland Hansen, satellite solutions for land and offshore energy . Franeau, Managing Director Vice President, Commercial applications, besides seeking new partners to Datasat will leverage SES at Datasat. Maritime and Energy Sales expand its growing IoT/M2M ecosystem. N e t w o r k s ' S i g n a t u r e at SES Networks. Maritime Solutions and “SES Networks' innovative, Shawkat Ahmed, Chief Commercial Officer ground infrastructure to h i g h - t h r o u g h p u t “Delivering the highest level elaborates: “Thuraya extends the possibilities d e l i v e r a p r e m i u m connectivity and fully of service today requires of smart connectivity – covering machine experience for passengers m a n a g e d e n d - t o - e n d seamless and reliable learning, automation, tracking and monitoring - and crew travelling onboard services is our gateway to connectivity, and SES to ever more remote and harsher environments t h e m o d e r n a n d more intelligent ships, Networks is setting a new - on land and at sea.” Faced with challenges on technologically-advanced smarter fleet management, standard for the cruise and numerous fronts, global energy players are vessels, which provide high- and unparalleled guest ferry sector that's unmatched looking to streamline their operations to stay q u a l i t y t r a n s p o r t a t i o n s a t i s f a c t i o n . We a r e i n t e r m s o f s c a l e , competitive, maximize revenue and reduce services for passengers and constantly looking for ways p e r f o r m a n c e a n d environmental impact. Shawkat continues, “Oil private vehicles in the to optimize the service technological diversity.” and gas operators urgently need sustainable Mediterranean Sea. p r o v i d e d t o f e r r y solutions to regulate uptime, productivity and total cost of ownership. With an advanced M2M portfolio featuring per byte billing, dual mode Sat-GSM option, Satellite IP data and circuit NSR: Consumer IoT still a vast untapped switched connectivity; we cater to all fixed and Satcom opportunity mobile use cases. Supplying always-on IP connectivity, Thuraya M2M and IoT via satellite consists of consumer entrants. enables smart connectivity for remote has traditionally been handheld devices, most operations on a wide range of protocols such as The strategic issue with the dominated by industrial notably Globalstar SPOT above types of devices is that narrowband IP, circuit switched data and voice a p p l i c a t i o n s , w i t h and Garmin. These product over IP (VoIP). At OilComm 2019, the company usage is unlike that of Transportation, Cargo, lines have now been industrial applications, which will introduce an upgrade of its highly Maritime and Energy available for years, with successful T2M-DUAL solution that was have a stable usage pattern. s e c t o r s a l l p r i m a r y limited levels of competition Consumer IoT device usage is originally designed for fleet management and subscribers to satcom M2M t o d a t e . S e e i n g t h e logistics. Facilitating simultaneous data inherently irregular and and IoT services. popularity of these devices, occasional. This leads to high collection from both fixed and mobile assets, in recent years a number of the IoT/M2M terminal now supports a wide levels of churn in this At the same time, we're new devices have become application, which is typical range of applications such as rail tracking, seeing an explosion of available, such as the SCADA and pipeline monitoring, smart grid and across the segment as growth in the consumer Satpaq, the Somewear, the consumers and eco-tourism metering, security, surveillance, weather handheld space in terms of Bivystick, and Thuraya's station monitoring, hydro and environmental users subscribe for short subscribers and revenues, own satellite smartphone. periods when travelling and management. and also new products In addition, Thuraya is bringing a new fleet of then or almost immediately, coming to market tapping While subscriber growth is cancel service afterwards. solutions that deliver the reassurance of into satellite networks. strong for now, NSR constant connectivity on offshore platforms, Globalstar found this in 2018, believes that growth will with the company having net including oilrigs and petroleum tankers. The With Cisco estimating 500 slow over the coming VSAT+ is an all-weather, high-bandwidth in-service subscriber growth of billion Internet connected decade, due to a smaller ~5,600 in 2018 compared to service that caters to complex operations such devices by 2030, how far t h a n a n t i c i p a t e d as office-at-sea, crew welfare, vessel 2017. Gross subscriber can satellite tap into the addressable market, and additions were ~69,000 databases, cargo conditions reporting, chart consumer space as well as competition from new and software updates. Benefiting from a strong across the same period, new applications never smallsat devices designed indicating that a significant alliance provided by Thuraya, ITC Global, previously been connected? for panic button type usage. iDirect and Hughes, it provides Ku-band VSAT number of existing customers In our M2M and IoT via had discontinued service. with critical L-band back up so that services are Satellite, 10th Edition report, Longer term, retail revenues available at all times. will flatten out as well, as While Globalstar derives a Designed specifically for harsh maritime NSR forecasted over ARPUs are expected to environments, ThurayaSeaStar meets the significant proportion of their 920,000 active consumer decline as more intermittent revenue base from SPOT, evolving needs of small-scale operators. The IoT devices in 2028, up from usage is expected and to SeaStar solution offers voice, SMS, data and Iridium is less affected due to a ~430,000 at the end of 2018, counter high levels of churn. sufficiently broad subscriber tracking, on an easy and intuitive interface, which corresponds to Equipment pricing is also based on the Android operating system. It is base, and in the consumer IoT annual retail revenues of expected to decline due to space new partnerships with ideal for smaller and medium vessels, although nearly $200 million in 2028 increased competition – its appeal also extends to other operators Somewear and Bivystick alone. something that will prove to further broaden this base. looking for support systems. This category primarily be a huge challenge to new
8 IN THE NEWS
UEFA Champions and NASA taps high tech to develop more Europa League capable, miniaturized spectrometer matches broadcast A technology that has enabled live in HD across ever-faster delivery of voice and data over the Internet and Indonesia other telecommunications platforms could play a front- Football fans in Indonesia are now able to and-center role in NASA's watch their favourite European teams quest to develop a super-small compete in the UEFA Champions League instrument for gathering (UCL) and UEFA Europa League (UEF) live unprecedented details about on TV screens in high-definition (HD) format extraterrestrial planets, moons, due to a new partnership formed by media comets, and asteroids. group Surya Citra Media (SCM), satellite Although its critical component direct-to-home TV provider Nex Parabola is the size of a computer chip, Measat-3b and the world leading satellite operator the instrument promises to SES. SCM has secured the exclusive exceed the performance of a broadcast rights for the 2019/20 football similar-type, but significantly seasons of UCL and UEL which will be larger instrument installed at a delivered to Nex Parabola customers via the ground-based observatory in SES-9 satellite, SES has announced Hawaii. Since its installation at water, carbon dioxide, multiple channels can . the summit of Mt. Haleakala in methane, and many other share a resource—in this The two European football channels will be 2014, the Japanese-developed c o m p o u n d s i n case, typically a fiber-optic packaged together with exclusive content Mid-Infrared Heterodyne extraterrestrial atmospheres cable—and experience from SCM Group. These new channels Instrument, or MILAHI, has and surfaces. And also like g r e a t l y r e d u c e d include Citra Cinema, Citra Drama Plus, gathered extraordinarily MILAHI, PICTURE would interference and crosstalk Citra Muslim and Citra Dangdut, providing a d e t a i l e d , c o n t i n u o u s split mid-infrared light into its w h i l e d r a m a t i c a l l y variety of lifestyle, entertainment and m e a s u r e m e n t s o f t h e c o m p o n e n t c o l o r s — a increasing the efficiency s c i e n c e c a l l e d a n d s p e e d o f religious content for Nex Parabola atmospheric dynamics, thermal s t r u c t u r e , a n d s u r f a c e spectroscopy—to reveal a t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s customers wealth of information about signals. SES-9 is co-located at 108.2 degrees East compositions of Mars and u Venus. an object's composition and orbital position with SES-7 and provides As good as MILAHI is, it's too other physical properties. The team plans to adopt prime coverage over all 17,000 islands in big and heavy to fly on a But shrinking the instrument the same general principle. Indonesia, as well as locations in South traditional satellite, let alone a to fit inside a CubeSat, which T h e c h i p - s i z e d P I C Asia, Northeast Asia, Australia and the less-expensive CubeSat is often no larger than a loaf spectrometer, equipped Middle East. The 108.2 degrees East whose small size and lower of bread, will require that Yu w i t h t h e neighbourhood is targeted for video cost would allow scientists to fly and his team, including the t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s - services and ensures extensive coverage multiple, similarly equipped Naval Research Laboratory inspired waveguides, over all corners of the country for SES-9. platforms for multipoint and the University of would separate the light This, coupled with SES-9's high-powered observations, said Principal California-Santa Barbara, into its individual mid- wide beam design, makes the satellite ideal Investigator Tony Yu, a adopt techniques originally infrared wavelengths—an f o r l o c a l b r o a d c a s t s e r v i c e s . technologist at NASA's c r e a t e d b y t h e important step in ultimately “Having recently secured the exclusive Goddard Space Flight Center in t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s determining the molecular broadcast rights for the UEFA Champions Greenbelt, Maryland, who industry. "Basically, what composition of planetary League and Europa League in Indonesia, recently won technology- we're doing is applying atmospheres and surfaces. telecom technologies for use These individual channels we want to bring the best European football development funds from NASA's Planetary Concepts for in space," Yu said. would then be mixed with ntertainment to as many fans as possible Under his PICASSO award, laser light, also tuned to a through our subsidiary Nex Parabola and the Advancement of Solar S y s t e m O b s e r v a t i o n s Yu and his team are focusing specific wavelength, in a satellite partner SES. With SES-9, we are (PICASSO) program to mature on one of PICTURE's most p r o c e s s c a l l e d able to maximise our reach and deliver an a s m a l l e r M I L A H I - t y p e critical subsystems: the PIC h e t e r o d y n i n g — a unparalleled viewing experience in instrument. spectrometer, the chip-sized commonly used technique premium HD format to audiences across the "We want to do similar science, device inspired by the to amplify signals. country, whether they are watching us on but we need to reduce the telecom industry's arrayed their home TVs or at the neighbourhood instrument's size," Yu said, waveguide gratings, or Under this effort, the team warung,” said Junus Koswara, President adding that his team's goal is to AWGs. w i l l d e v e l o p a P I C Director of Nex Parabola create a small, lightweight In telecommunications and spectrometer that focuses “Our partnership with Nex Parabola is d e v i c e t h a t c o n s u m e s computer networks, AWGs on the spectral band ideal testament to our satellite fleet's capabilities significantly less power and serve a couple functions. In a for detecting carbon of delivering prime international content to operates without moving parts, process called multiplexing, monoxide. The goal under viewers around the globe in the best quality making it ideal for flying on they combine multiple the PICASSO is to raise the possible, wherever they are. We are CubeSat platforms. analog or digital signals with d e v i c e ' s t e c h n o l o g y pleased to help Nex Parabola expand their Like MILAHI, the Photonic varying wavelengths into a readiness level (TRL)—the single optic fiber. At the scale that NASA uses to audience reach using satellite in the most Integrated Circuit Tuned for R e c o n n a i s s a n c e a n d receiver end of an optical determine a technology's cost-effective manner, and remain communications network, a readiness for use in committed to delivering satellite services for Exploration, or PICTURE, would be tuned to the mid- reverse process—known as space—from its current broadcasters, content providers and infrared wavelengths—the demultiplexing—occurs. The TRL of two to a TRL of four companies across the country,” said Yew spectral or frequency range waveguides then retrieve the and then to advance the Weng Soo, Vice President, Sales & Market ideal for remotely sensing individual channels. i n s t r u m e n t ' s o t h e r Development, Asia Pacific of SES Video. With this two-step process, subsystems. 11 IN THE NEWS
SpaceX's Starlink Satellite industry show 6% growth, satellite broadband despite challenges, says NSR tested by US Military NSR's Satellite Industry Financial Analysis, 9th The US Air Force has been beaming high Edition report, released by speed and encrypted internet connections into NSR, reports a 6% industry its military aircraft, thanks to the burgeoning growth in 2018-2019, on the Starlink satellite fleet from Elon Musk's back of strong IFC contracts SpaceX. SpaceX also announced that it hopes a n d b r o a d b a n d to begin offering its Starlink broadband service subscriptions, with several to US customers in mid-2020, providing it can i n t e g r a t e d o p e r a t o r s place enough satellites into orbit in time. posting large double-digit Another 60 satellite are expected to launch this growth. November from an Air Force station in Florida. But then things ramp up next year. Senior While EBITDA margins company executives in September revealed that it intends to launch 24 Starlink missions in improved and cash flows 2020, as part of SpaceX's strategy to place up increased, top-line growth to 12,000 satellites in orbit, with approximately remains a big concern for 2,000 satellites launched per year. It could SES, Intelsat, Eutelsat, and positive cash flow. from various stand-alone eventually place up to 42,000 satellites into Telesat. and integrated operators,” orbit in the long term. A prolonged decline inFarhad Finally Khan,, 2018-19 Chief Commercial has been a Of ficernotes, Yahsat Gagan Agrawal, NSR It comes after SpaceX launched 60 “Starlink” media revenues is met with breakthrough for M&A, with Senior Analyst and report satellites for its low earth orbit-based modest gains for data Hispasat, Asiasat, and author. “While operators broadband project in May this year. The networks, with flat to Inmarsat going private on pursue growth, it is key that Falcon 9 rocket carried 60 flat-packed declining revenues the t h e b a c k o f s t r o n g each creates its own captive satellites, after it lifted off from Cape Canaveral norm. Decline in Return on Air Force Station after the launch had been performances towards regional markets, with Capital Employed also cash generation, backlog, highest fleet efficiency for delayed by heavy winds. denotes a transition phase The Falcon 9's main-stage reusable booster a n d d e b t r e d u c t i o n . wholesale revenue and the from FSS to HTS until 2020, rocket then returned to Earth and landed best-in-class fleet synergies successfully on a barge floating in the Atlantic after which growth is “The industry is set to in a managed services role,” ocean. The 24 Starlink missions in 2020 expected to take off again. w i t n e s s a h i g h e r Agrawal noted further therefore could theoretically see the addition For 3 years in a row, Service diversification in fleet of 1,440 “Starlink” satellites next year, Providers posted large top- strategy going forward with NSR's newly released providing coverage for the southern area of the line gains with Speedcast, options from FSS Hybrid Satellite Industry Financial United States. Just days after the May launch it Hughes, and Gogo leading (high EBITDA) to VHTS Analysis, 9th Edition looks at was revealed that SpaceX had raised more the way. EBITDA margins (efficiency) to small GEOs these market dynamics and than $1 billion (£790m) in a six month period to have improved, but are still (regional/mission specific) potential growth drivers for help fund its broadband satellite ambitions. far away from generating to non-GEOs (ubiquitous) the near to long term future. And the investment is paying off, after SpaceX President and Chief Operating Officer Gwynne Shotwell confirmed that the US Air Force is already testing its service. Vox expands its satellite data and voice “We are delivering high bandwidth into the cockpit of Air Force planes,” Shotwell was services quoted by Reuters as saying on Tuesday. “Right now we're just testing the capability and Vox has announced new uses four Ka-band HYLAS Ka-band satellite services figuring out how to make it work.” The US Air capped and uncapped satellites to provides portfolio, bring new data Force program is reportedly called 'Global satellite internet plans that satellite connectivity to 118 and voice offerings to the Lightning', and it began testing with SpaceX in will be made available countries in Europe, the South African market, and early 2018 as part of a $28 million Pentagon through its partnership with Middle East and Africa. give our customers more contract awarded to SpaceX in late 2018. Avanti Communications. Africa is the fastest growing choice.” The Air Force used Starlink's first two test data market in the world and Headquartered in UK and satellites to beam to terminals fixed to a C-12 Subscribers to the capped with the majority of its providing services across military transport plane in flight. According to satellite data plans have the SpaceX Senior VP Tim Hughes, this test saw option to add an uncapped capacity dedicated to Africa, Europe and Africa, Avanti is the C-12 plane receiving internet speeds of voice channel to their Avanti is also playing an the first mover in high 610 megabits per-second. That type of speed package. important role and has t h r o u g h p u t K a - b a n d can download a movie in under a minute. \ d e v e l o p e d s t r o n g s a t e l l i t e d a t a Meanwhile Shotwell was quoted as saying that “Being able to offer our partnerships with the largest communications in Africa. the US Air Force program is ongoing and customers options such as telcos in our core markets. The Group has invested expects to test Starlink with “a number” of high throughput uncapped $1.2bn in a network that additional military aircraft types. The contract data and uncapped voice “Ka-band satellite has been incorporates Ka-Band also includes testing communications plans, at this price point, is a growing around the world; satellites, ground stations, between satellites in orbit, Reuters reported. g a m e c h a n g e r f o r it's quick and easy to install datacentres and a fibre The US military makes heavy use of satellites, telecommunications in for end users, and provides ring. Avanti has three Ka- and the head of the new US Space Command, South Africa,” said Jacques them with much higher Band satellites in orbit and General John Raymond, Reuters said had throughputs as compared to a further two fully funded previously visited SpaceX's Starlink factory in Visser, head of wireless at other satellite technologies,” Ka-band satellites. Avanti Redmond, Washingtons. General Raymond Vox. “Gone are the days has also apparently visited OneWeb's new when satellite internet was said Visser. covers an end market of satellite production line in Cape Canaveral, seen as a slow, expensive over 1.7bn people. Florida. service.” “Our partnership with Avanti Avanti Communications helps us expand our existing
12 IN THE NEWS
WMO Regional Office Satellite industry celebrates a mission that for Africa opens in changed how we use Radar Ethiopia Oct. 11, 2019, marks the 25th Sahara, Brazil, the Alps and has been imaging Earth with anniversary of the end of a the Gulf Stream. It also radar — in darkness, under The World Meteorological Organization s p a c e m i s s i o n t h a t imaged events occurring cloud cover or vegetation, has opened its Regional Office for Africa in transformed the way we use during the flights, such as as a even underground — using the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, a move radar to observe large-scale volcano erupting in Russia. the movements of a host marked by an official ceremony on 16 environmental processes on "The many innovations of airplane or spacecraft to October with Secretary-General Petteri our home planet. The SIR-C/X-SAR have been "synthesize" an "aperture" Spaceborne Imaging Radar- used in virtually every air- and much larger than the antenna Taalas and the country's Minister for C and X-Band Synthetic spaceborne radar mission itself. The larger the aperture, Water, Irrigation and Energy, Seleshi Aperture Radar (SIR-C/X- since, starting with NASA's the greater the image Bekele. SAR) mission made available Shuttle Radar Topography resolution. Indeed, SIR-C's The formal handover ceremony was the to people worldwide the Mission, which mapped 80% predecessors, SIR-A and culmination of a process that began with scientific data used to this day of the Earth in 2000," said SIR-B, were synthetic the 2018 signing of a Host Country to inform decisions to slow Tony Freeman, now manager aperture radar missions. Agreement that paved the way for the and mitigate climate change. of JPL's Innovation Foundry, relocation of the Regional Office for Africa w h o l e d e n d - t o - e n d However, unlike SIR-C/X- from WMO's headquarters in Geneva, The SIR-C instrument, built calibration of SIR-C. "DLR's SAR, neither predecessor Switzerland, to Addis Ababa. by NASA'S Jet Propulsion TerraSAR-X and TanDEM-X made radar observations Mr Taalas, who reiterated his sincere Laborator in Pasadena, missions have since filled simultaneously in three gratitude to the government of Ethiopia for California, and the X-SAR remaining gaps.” frequencies — C-, L- and X- hosting the Regional Office for Africa and instrument, built by the band — using three adjacent providing its facilities, underscored the German Aerospace Center Radar imaging of Earth has antennas combined into a importance of the move. (DLR), constituted the most never been the same since massive, 12-by-4-meter, 11.5- “The Office is expected to play key roles in advanced imaging radar S I R - C / X - S A R ' s ton structure. That advance, enhancing the capacities of National system ever used in air or demonstration of what's analogous to the leap from space. During hundreds of known as simultaneous black-and-white to color film, Meteorological and Hydrological orbits on two flights aboard m u l t i f r e q u e n c y, f u l l y allowed the mission to collect Services, including Ethiopia, to provide the Space Shuttle Endeavour, p o l a r i z e d , r e p e a t - p a s s data in different scales, timely, reliable and accurate weather-, in April and October 1994, the interferometric SAR. To providing a crisp snapshot of climate- and hydrology-related services, radar system made multiple unpack that sizable trunk of each targeted feature, products and information to stakeholders passes over 19 "supersites" terminology, let's start with unmuddied by possible in climate-sensitive sectors and for — areas of scientific interest "synthetic aperture radar": changes over time. efficient service delivery,” he said. in such locations as the Since the late 1970s, NASA Mr Taalas noted that, in 2015, WMO started the process of moving closer to the ground in order to better engage with its six regions and respond to their needs. Intelsat announces Q3 2019 results Minister Bekele said that he appreciated the contribution of WMO in coordinating Intelsat S.A. announced t h e e f f o r t m a d e b y N a t i o n a l financial results for the three and nine months ended Meteorological and Hydrological Services September 30, 2019. Intelsat to provide warnings of severe weather, reported total revenue of climate variability and change, and $506.7 million and net loss thereby enabling decision-makers, attributable to Intelsat S.A. of communities and individuals to better $148.3 million for the three prepare for weather and climate events. months ended September 30, He also informed WMO that the present 2019. Intelsat reported location of the Regional Office for Africa is EBITDA1, or earnings before temporary. It will eventually be housed in net interest, gain on early the new headquarters of Ethiopia's extinguishment of debt, taxes National Meteorological Agency, which is a n d d e p r e c i a t i o n a n d set to open by 2022. amortization, of $336.1 million WMO signed the Host Country Agreement and Adjusted EBITDA1 of on 11 July 2018 with the government of $356.1 million, or 70 percent Ethiopia to open its Regional Office for of revenue, for the three months ended September 30, infrastructure service starts Alliance proposal under the Africa in Addis Ababa. The decision to in the third quarter in Africa, U . S . F e d e r a l open the office was strategic in that Addis 2019. Free cash flow used in operations1 was $10.1 million. Oceania and Latin America. C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Ababa is the political capital of the African Further, with Intelsat 39 C o m m i s s i o n C - b a n d Union and also hosts the United Nations Intelsat's Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Spengler, entering service this month, proceeding is positive and Economic Commission for Africa. said, “2019 is progressing to we expanded the essential productive. Our focus on an The relocation of the Regional Office for our expectations, expanding broadband infrastructure we expanded spectrum clearing Africa to Ethiopia will further strengthen o u r m a n a g e d s e r v i c e s provide to Myanmar under a approach clears maximum channels of support from WMO for early strategy to the benefit of our long-term agreement, as spectrum for 5G—300 MHz warning systems that mainstream network services, media and well as increased and inclusive of a 20 MHz guard weather and climate into national, regional government businesses. enhanced our mobility band—while maintaining the and continental development plans and infrastructure throughout the reliability of the U.S. related programmes in across the Our focus on the wireless Indian Ocean and Asia t e l e v i s i o n a n d r a d i o continent. sector continues to yield regions. ecosystem. b e n e f i t s , w i t h n e w Spengler concluded, “The progression of our C-Band
18 SPECIAL REPORT
Picture source ADB
Picture source: ITU
Courtesy-Ni SpaceXgeria’s radio quite zone hub revealed!
Air Vice Marshall Tommy Udoh Besides locating radio astronomy stations far from heavily populated areas as possible, particularly in area of radio quiet zone, analysis of test result revealed that while Nsukka has an average zenith tropospheric delay of 2.4m, a radio wave propagating through the troposphere over Nsukka will experience a minimal delay. Nsukka, as the scientists revealed is a prospective location for sitting a radio observatory mission as Nigeria look forward to developing a new observatory mission.
The question being asked today is likened to, understanding the universe. In the past, modern astrophysics. Basic questions in this “What is it good for and why invest in radio locals have always been interested in it, context concern where the stars are and how astronomy?” A hundred years ago, mankind mainly because they gave names to things. they move, e.g. their positions, distances was unaware of the scale of the Universe, its Nowadays astronomers can do more than and motions. It is the task of astrometry to constituent billions of galaxies and only had a just naming stars and looking at them. They investigate such fundamental data about the general belief that the cosmos was 'very old'. actually know what they are about and the stars in the Galaxy. Today we have a confident measure of its age reason this can be achieved is because In Nigeria, there is increasing interest in the and its likely evolutionary path. Its now astronomers have better equipment, that's a use of radio frequencies for communication. possible to observe the physical telescope. One of the main players, is the Centre for manifestations of its constituent objects such Basic Space Science located in Enugu, as the stars, galaxies, clusters, etc across the The role of radio astronomy South East Nigeria to investigate the entire electromagnetic (EM) spectrum, to According to ITU, radio astronomers have interference environment in the “short-wave” detect particles, cosmic rays and provided major contributions to our band around 20 MHz. However, designing gravitational wave ripples of ongoing and understanding of the Universe as an entity. and building Radio Telescope from the cataclysmic events. It is no exaggeration to This began with the 1964 discovery of the beginning is an international affair. Not only say that our understanding of the cosmos has almost isotropic cosmic microwave within the continent od Africa, but, due to the made huge strides through the last two background, for which the 1978 Nobel Prize local lack of more than rudimentary decades. was awarded, the second to radio knowledge about interferometry, by inviting Radio astronomy is a relatively young aspect astronomers Radar astronomy imaging specialists from abroad to become part, or of astronomy, having developed rapidly over techniques (for the near field) are used for even lead the design group.. the last 80 years or so. civil and military purposes for imaging More than thousands of years ago, people spacecraft in orbit. So far, the Centre for Basic Space Science have been looking at the sky, but it's only in However, observing, and trying to (CBSS) was created in 2001. A decade ago, the last couple hundred years that enthusiast understand, the structure of our Galaxy and a team of engineers and scientists at the and astronomers have the tools for the function of its parts is one of the goals of CBSS successfully assembled and installed
19 SPECIAL REPORT
a 3-m radio telescope, in order to better understand the operation and control of such a telescope. As the reality of a telescopic mission dawn, Nigerian scientists are evaluating the degree of tropospheric delay of Nsukka using 4 years of meteorological data of temperature, pressure and relative humidity with a view to determining the effect of Nsukka weather conditions to radio wave propagation. In order to determine the tropospheric delay value in Nsukka, the scientists obtained meteorological data of temperature, pressure and relative humidity of Nsukka from the Center for Atmospheric research of the National Space Research and Development Agency, NASRDA, beginning from January 2008 to December 2011.
The work is necessary in determining the choice of site for the location of radio telescope and for propagation planning in radioinferometry. Though inadequate information on the propagation challenges that may be peculiar to any specific location due to the variation in the index of refraction in the troposphere over the location, has resulted in error in infererometry and geodesy. Nsukka, as the scientists revealed is a prospective location for sitting a radio observatory and considering that there exist a twin18mCourtesy- dishes SpaceX located in Enugu city that are prospective facilities for astronomical use. The research work may be useful in propagation planning within the location. of the estimation of the position of a radio observatories have found benefits to source. Tropospheric delay is usually surrounding their radio telescopes by forests The troposphere classified into hydrostatic and wet delay of coniferous trees, which, due to the moisture The Earth's weather and climate is heavily to account for the effect of dry gases and content of their needles, can provide influenced by the amount of water vapour water vapour pressure respectively. additional protection from interference and other greenhouse gases in the lower They are principally referred to as coming from the horizon, particularly at part of the (neutral) atmosphere known as zeni9th hydrostatic and zenith wet delay frequencies above a few Ghz. the troposphere. An increase of become the line of sight in the zenith However, observatories located on mountain t e m p e r a t u r e l e a d s t o i n c r e a s e d direction. peaks with very long lines of sight are evaporation. The troposphere can sustain The atmosphere in low latitude regions is particularly challenging for radio quiet zone large volumes of water vapour, which in turn of particular interest to researchers coordination. According to ITU, a key model of traps radiant energy. This trapped radiation because the propagation of satellite an radio quiet zone is that no transmitters at all causes temperatures to increase and signals becomes significantly delayed are allowed within the quiet zone, perhaps hence to create more warming. The compared with other regions of the world. over a specific frequency range that is related troposphere is the neutral region of the to the operation of a radio telescope. In Earth's atmosphere extending from the another model, transmitters are allowed as Earth's surface up to 50 kilometres. Radio quiet zone long as the received signal level at the radio When satellite signals propagate through Because radio astronomy observations astronomy station does not exceed a the troposphere, they experience range from the surface of the Earth are specified interference threshold, again over delays dependent on the pressure, intrinsically sensitive to radio some frequency range. temperature and moisture content along the interference from man-made sources, The nature of radio frequency propagation is signal path. whether intentional or unintentional, such that interference power decreases with Accordingly, as radio signals traverse the r a d i o q u i e t z o n e s h a v e b e e n increasing distance from transmitters. The neural atmosphere usually called implemented by some administrations, most basic approach, therefore, is to select a troposphere, they are affected by the based on ITU release,. An radio quiet geographic location that is sufficiently far variation in the refractive index of the zone, according to ITU is defined here as away from population centres and traffic. atmosphere. Consequently, they any recognized geographic area within Mountain top sites are often useful for their experience a decrease in their speed of which the usual spectrum management remoteness; they also provide a shorter path propagation and a deviation of their procedures are modified for the specific through the atmosphere, which is particularly propagation path from a straight line purpose of reducing or avoiding advantageous at higher frequencies. Where according to Fermai's principle of least time. interference to radio telescopes, in order possible, natural shielding of the site should In effect, their time of propagation slows to optimize the environment in which be used. In contrast to the mountaintop site, down and the distance traversed become observations are carried out. the exact geographic location gives longer. These result to a phenomenon Besides locating radio astronomy preference to valley locations surrounded by called tropospheric delay. This takes place stations as far from heavily populated hills or mountains, and is particularly chosen in the troposphere due to its non dispersive areas as possible, placing them in areas for low frequency observations. nature. Inappropriate modeling of this delay that provide some level of natural terrain in radio propagation results in degradation shielding is helpful. In Europe, some
20 SPECIAL FEATURE WMO urges protection of radio frequencies vital to weather forecasts
The World Meteorological Organization is calling on governments to protect radio frequencies allocated to Earth observation services which are vital for weather forecasts and long-term climate change monitoring, according to this report.
The World Meteorological Organization is periods. But, there is increasing pressure representing international organizations, calling on governments to protect radio on the use of radio spectrum from wireless equipment manufacturers, network frequencies allocated to Earth observation technology and other applications, operators and industry forums who attend services which are vital for weather i n c l u d i n g I n t e r n a t i o n a l M o b i l e as observers. forecasts and long-term climate change Telecommunications (IMT) services that “The key to a successful outcome of WRC- monitoring. include new technologies such as 5G. 19 lies in building consensus on how to According to WMO, Decisions with major balance the demands of the different repercussions for Earth exploration, Passive sensing techniques services that require radio-frequency e n v i r o n m e n t a l m o n i t o r i n g a n d spectrum, such as aeronautical, maritime, meteorological satellite operation will be M a n y m e t e o r o l o g i c a l s a t e l l i t e satellite, broadcasting, Earth observation, made at the world Radiocommnication observations use passive sensing mobile broadband, amateur radio and Confereencee fron 28 October – 22 techniques, which make it possible to gain railways,” according to the ITU. November, The conference, held every information on the current state of the three to four years under the auspices of the Earth system by exploiting the absorption WMO is concerned that the repercussions International Telecommunications Union characteristics of the atmosphere. o f d e c i s i o n s a t t h e W o r l d (ITU), reviews the Radio Regulations which Radiocommunication Conference may only govern the use of radio-frequency Such passive measurements are made by become apparent when it is too late to spectrum and satellite orbits. It will consider sensitive instruments that measure the reverse them. These views are shared by the management of scarce orbit/spectrum very low-power microwave radiances operational centres such as the European resources. naturally emitted from the atmosphere and Centre for Medium Range Weather the Earth's surface. These passive Forecasting, and space agencies such as There is growing alarm within the techniques are the most vulnerable to EUMETSAT and the European Space meteorological community that the interference from new users of radio Agency. increasing competition for bandwidths, frequencies generating electromagnetic including from the next-generation mobile emissions for their own purposes. I phone data service, 5G, may be at the World Meteorological detriment of established applications The primary concern is the 23.6-24 GHz Congress relating to Earth observation satellites, “passive” satellite observation frequency radiosondes, aircraft, radar and other band which is adjacent to the 5G 24.25- The World Meteorological Congress – the observing systems. 27.5 GHz band under discussion. Current supreme decision-making organ of WMO – “WMO obviously does not wish to hamper ITU-R studies in all frequency bands show earlier this year passed a resolution the rollout of new telecommunication that only an important reduction of IMT- expressing its serious concern at the technologies such as 5G. But we are 2020 unwanted emissions can ensure continuing threat to several radio- concerned that they should not encroach protection of EESS (passive) sensors, in frequency bands allocated to the on the frequencies used by life-saving particular for the 23.6-24 GHz “passive” meteorological aids, meteorological- applications such as weather prediction,” band. satellite, Earth exploration satellite and says Eric Allaix, chair of the WMO Steering radiolocation (weather and wind profiler Group on Radio Frequency Coordination. ? W M O a n d t h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l radars) services posed by the development “There needs to be a balance between Telecommunications Union (ITU) have of other radiocommunication services.” short term commercial and technological worked closely over many years to protect interests and long-term global well-being these special radio frequencies through Specifically, the resolution asked the and safety. We should not run the risk of ITUs Radio Regulations but it is up to the International Telecommunication Union reversing many of the gains in our warning Members of these organizations to take and its Member Administrations to “ensure services for natural hazards and thus note of the scientific studies and ensure the availability and absolute protection of potentially increasing loss of life and that appropriate protection is maintained the radio-frequency bands which, due to property,” said Mr Allaix. and is sustainable. their special physical characteristics, are a unique natural resource for spaceborne Thanks to timely weather warnings, there These decisions will be taken during the passive sensing of the atmosphere and the has been a big reduction in the loss of life four-week World Radiocommunication Earth's surface and are of crucial d u r i n g r e c e n t d e c a d e s . T h e s e Conference in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. importance for weather, water and climate improvements are directly related to the The event brings together more than 3500 research and operation use of radio frequency based remote participants from 193 ITU Member States sensing feeding directly into numerical along with 267 members of the ITU weather prediction systems giving more R a d i o c o m m u n i c a t i o n S e c t o r accurate predictions with longer lead
21 MARKET REPORT Eutelsat Communications Setting new milestones in Q1
The first Quarter has seen a number of milestones in our Connectivity strategy, procurement of EUTELSAT 10B, and foundations of the IoT strategy, as well as the order of first ELO constellation nano-satellites, according to Rodolphe Belmer, Eutelsat has began the roll-out of 'LEAP 2' cost-savings program, aimed at generating economies of €20-25 million by the end of FY 2021-22.
Founded in 1977, Eutelsat Communications FIRST, an end-to-end managed service broadband sector, first Quarter revenues is one of the world's leading satellite operating in Ku-band on our existing stood at €19.9 million, down 3.3% year-on- operators. With a global fleet of satellites and geostationary fleet, and launch of the LEAP year. Revenue trends in Europe are associated ground infrastructure, Eutelsat 2 cost-savings program to generate opex improving, reflecting the continued roll-out enables clients across Video, Data, savings of €20-25 million by FY 2021-22 to of the Preferred Partner Programme which Government, Fixed and Mobile Broadband underpin Discretionary Free Cash Flow is gradually being extended to new markets to communicate effectively to their objective, and deploy resources in the countries. The contribution of African customers, irrespective of their location. Over growth verticals while preserving our Broadband remains modest at this stage, 6,800 television channels operated by EBITDA margin; but is expected to ramp throughout the leading media groups are broadcast by year. Eutelsat's first quarter revenues from Eutelsat to one billion viewers equipped for mobile connectivity stood at €19.7 million, DTH reception or connected to terrestrial First quarter revenues down 7.8% year-on-year. They reflected networks. Headquartered in Paris, with In the Broadcast sector, first Quarter mostly a negative one-off of circa €1m offices and teleports around the globe, revenues amounted to €194.7 million, down related to the timing of revenue recognition Eutelsat assembles 1,000 men and women 1.7% year-on-year. This reflected notably which will be caught up next quarter. Other from 44 countries who are dedicated to the termination of a contract in Sub-Saharan effects include notably the carry-forward delivering the highest quality of service. Africa and the temporary effect of the return impact of the end of a temporary wide- Rodolphe Belmer, Chief Executive Officer, of a couple of transponders in Russia. eeOn beam contract on EUTELSAT 172B in FY Courtesy- SpaceX said: “The first Quarter has seen a number of a quarter-on-quarter basis, revenues were 2018-19 offsetting the contribution of milestones in our Connectivity strategy, with down by 2.0%. UnicomAirNet from January 2019. the procurement of EUTELSAT 10B with At 30 September 2019, the total number of channels broadcast by Eutelsat satellites significant pre-commitments in the mobility Procurement of EUTELSAT segment and the foundations laid for the IoT stood at 6,976, down 0.3% year-on-year. strategy, notably with the order of our first The number of HD channels stood at 1,582 10B ELO constellation nanosatellites. Elsewhere, versus 1,419 a year earlier, up by 11.5% and A letter of agreement has been signed with we have added a further lever to our cash flow represented 22.7% of channels compared Thales Alenia Space for the procurement strategy with the roll-out of the LEAP 2 cost- to 20.3% a year earlier. On the commercial of a new all-electric satellite, EUTELSAT savings plan, aiming to generate opex front, two multi-year, multi-transponder 10B, scheduled to be operational by 2023. economies of €20-25 million by FY 2021-22, contracts were signed with Orby TV for Located at 10° East, the satellite will assure which will be reinvested in our future growth capacity on EUTELSAT 117 West A for the service continuity for existing customers on verticals whilst preserving our EBITDA launch of a new DTH service across the EUTELSAT 10A, albeit with reduced margin. United States, and with Ultra DTH for c a p a c i t y, w h i l e s u p p o r t i n g t h e capacity on EUTELSAT 65 West A to development of mobile connectivity Despite our expectation that the revenues support the deployment of a white-label revenues with two incremental HTS profile for the current year will be back-end DTH platform across the Caribbean and payloads. Firm multi-year capacity loaded, the outturn of the First Quarter is Andean regions. Broadcast revenues commitments representing more than a slightly below our expectations, notably due should benefit from the entry into service of third of this incremental HTS capacity have to worsening trends in Data & Professional EUTELSAT 7C at the end of calendar year already been secured, notably with Gogo, Video and the unplanned return of a couple of 2019, bringing incremental capacity (19 36- for in-flight connectivity services. transponders in Russia. On the other hand, Mhz equivalent transponders) to the African broadcast market. the coming quarters will benefit from easing ELO Constellation comps in Government Services and Data & In the first quarter Data & Professional Video revenues stood at €43.0 million, down In September Eutelsat unveiled its ELO Professional Video, the contribution of new constellation project targeting the Internet capacity and the ramp-up of African by 19.6% year-on-year. They continued to reflect the ongoing pricing pressure and of Things (IoT) market. Starting with the Broadband. Eutelsat Communications also launch of a first series of four announced the procurement of EUTELSAT highly competitive environment in this application, and were also affected by nanosatellites, other satellites will 10B with significant pre-commitments, progressively be added to the constellation notably from Gogo, highlighting robust volume losses in Data in Latin America and lower occasional use in Professional Video. if this new initiative proves successful, to demand in the mobility market; Foundations reach a total of 25 satellites operational by laid for the development of our IoT strategy, First Quarter revenues from government services stood at €39.3 million, down 10.7% 2022. The investment required for the with two complementary initiatives: constellation is included in Eutelsat's Other key highlights include the order of first year-on-year, reflecting the carry-forward of the non-renewal of a single sizeable existing Capex outlook with a cost per four ELO constellation nanosatellites, adding satellite below 1 million euros. In this a future growth lever to Eutelsat's contract with a service provider in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018-19. In the fixed context, Eutelsat has signed a strategic Connectivity strategy, the launch of IoT partnership with leading IoT player Sigfox.
22 IN THE NEWS
Eutelsat orders EUTELSAT 10B Vox launches uncapped satellite Internet satellite for inflight Satellite connectivity in the partnership expands the South African market is set coverage of our satellite This makes satellite a and maritime for a shake up, with s e r v i c e s t o m o r e solution for users who are infrastructure provider Vox g e o g r a p h i c a l a r e a s , not in major urban areas connectivity services announcing the introduction including the Northern Cape that benefit from high-speed Eutelsat Communications has signed a of several capped and locally, giving us for the first connectivity such as fibre or letter of agreement with Thales Alenia uncapped data and voice time coverage on Ka-band LTE-A. Products such as Space for the procurement of EUTELSAT plans, made available across the entire country, as uncapped voice could have 10B, a new all-electric satellite built on the through its partnership with well as into much of sub- a positive social impact in Spacebus NEO platform. Scheduled to be Avanti Communications. Saharan Africa,” says Visser. rural areas of the country, as launched in 2022, the satellite will be “Ka-band satellite has been According to Visser, the small businesses or farmers growing around the world; partnership with Avanti will can now affordably provide located at 10° East, an orbital position that it's quick to install for end- allow Vox to offer an their workers with free calls offers a unique visibility spanning from the users, and provides them uncapped data plan, as well so that they can stay in Americas to Asia. It will ensure service w i t h m u c h h i g h e r as several capped data touch with family and continuity for existing customers on throughputs as compared to plans. Subscribers to the friends. EUTELSAT 10A, while supporting the other satellite technologies,” capped data plans can add As a result of increased development of the Group's activities in says Jacques Visser, head on an uncapped voice reliability and stability, a mobile connectivity thanks to two new of wireless at Vox. c h a n n e l . W h i l e t h e g r o w i n g n u m b e r o f incremental HTS payloads. ‘“Our partnership with Avanti uncapped data plan runs off businesses are also turning Two powerful and innovative payloads helps us expand our existing the HYLAS 2 satellite, the t o K a - b a n d s a t e l l i t e to provide inflight and maritime Ka-band satellite services capped data/uncapped services as a failover connectivity portfolio, bring new data and voice plans run off the newer connectivity, or even to Responding to strong growth in demand for voice offerings to the South HYLAS 4 satellite with a connect their software- mobile connectivity, EUTELSAT 10B will African market, and give our local landing station in South defined wide area networks carry two multi-beam HTS Ku-band customers more choice.” Africa, that reduces latency. (SD-WAN). payloads: a high-capacity payload, Based in the UK, Avanti “Being able to offer our covering the North Atlantic corridor, Europe, makes use of its fleet of four Visseradds that increased customers options such as the Mediterranean basin and the Middle Ka-band HYLAS satellites promotional offers for data high throughput uncapped and ground infrastructure in and voice plans, as well as data and uncapped voice East, offering significant throughput in the Amsterdam, Frankfurt, c o n s u m e r p r e m i s e plans, at this price point, is a busiest air and sea traffic zones, and a Istanbul, Johannesburg, equipment (CPE) subsidies, g a m e - c h a n g e r f o r second payload to extend coverage across Lagos and London among are now making satellite telecommunications in the Atlantic Ocean, Africa and the Indian others, to provide satellite s e r v i c e s f a r m o r e South Africa,” says Visser. Ocean. The satellite's HTS payloads will be connectivity to individuals competitive against other “Gone are the days when able to process more than 50 GHz of and businesses in over 118 forms of fixed, fixed- satellite internet was seen bandwidth, offering a throughput of countries in Europe, the w i r e l e s s , o r w i r e l e s s as a slow, expensive approximately 35 Gbps. The entire satellite Middle East and Africa. “This connectivity. service.” payload will be digitally processed, offering capacity allocation flexibility thanks to a digital transparent processor. Firm capacity commitments Gogo meets significant Inflight connectivity Firm multi-year capacity commitments have already been secured with several demand via a deal with Eutelsat leading in-flight connectivity service providers, representing more than one third Gogo, a leading global of the incremental HTS capacity. These provider of broadband partners will rely on EUTELSAT 10B to connectivity products and provide airlines with in-flight connectivity services for aviation, together services. w i t h E u t e l s a t Service continuity at a key orbital Communications, one of the location world's leading satellite The 10° East location that EUTELSAT 10B operators, announced today will occupy has been operated by Eutelsat a new satellite capacity since 1987 and provides unrivalled agreement for high-speed coverage in the heart of the European, inflight connectivity services. Middle Eastern and African zones. As part of the new multi-year EUTELSAT 10B satellite will carry two agreement, widebeam C- and Ku-band payloads, "Through our partnership “This agreement highlights totalling 32 36 MHz equivalent Gogo has leased HTS with Eutelsat, Gogo 2Ku the relevance of our newly transponders1 to ensure continuity of the bandwidth on EUTELSAT will continue to enable the ordered EUTELSAT 10B for 10B satellite, to be leveraged missions of the EUTELSAT 10A satellite, b e s t p a s s e n g e r inflight connectivity and we over Europe and the Middle experience for global look forward to supporting whose operational life is scheduled to end East. The new satellite is set in 2023. airlines.” "We are thrilled Gogo as they increase to launch in 2022. a b o u t o u r o n g o i n g capacity in Europe and the “We are advancing capacity The capital expenditure represented by relationship with Gogo, a Middle East to provide the capabilities given the growing long-standing partner and best services to their airline EUTELSAT 10B does not alter Eutelsat's demand for high-speed existing envelope of 400 million euros per a leading provider for partners.” inflight connectivity services,” inflight connectivity,” said annum on average for the period from July said Oakleigh Thorne, Philippe Oliva, Eutelsat's 2019 to June 2022. RodolpheBelmer, CEO president and CEO of Gogo. Chief Commercial Officer. SPECIAL REPORT Algeria’s rising space program
In the last 10 years, Algeria have built technology and other related fields. telemetry, and correct the anomalies. mini-satellites, moving the continent out of Before now, the Algerian government During the first two years of operations the class of being 'sensed' to 'sensing'. At created its Space Agency in January many Orbit Control Maneuvers were the same time, a country-wide, real-time 2002, Agence Spatiale Algérienne, executed: 10 of them were regular station Earth observation infrastructure has been ASAL or Algerian Space Agency, to keeping the operations were performed for developing. develop, promote, and manage the ground track corrections and two were Today, Algeria now has a national space countries space program. In addition, performed as emergency collision agency as well as regional centres and Centre of Space Techniques/Algerian avoidance maneuvers. universities dedicated to building Space Agency flown AlSat-1 as part of expertise in Earth Observation D M C ( D i s a s t e r M o n i t o r i n g AlSat-2 is an optical Earth observation technologies. Constellation), a 5 spacecraft optical project of Algerian National Space With technological advancement on the imaging constellation developed and Technology Centre, CNTS. In Feb. 2006, being steady rise, a growing Earth coordinated by Surrey Satellite agency signed an agreement with EADS observation market, an increasing Earth Technology Ltd, SSTL UK. AlSat-1 was Astrium SAS to design and built two observation user community, a breed of launched on Nov. 28, 2002, the satellites. The first of these, AlSat-2A, was enterprising Remote Sensing experts is spacecraft is operating nominally as of integrated and tested in France at EADS emerging in Algeria. 2009 providing multispectral imagery of Astrium, whereas the second one, AlSat- 32 m resolution in a swath of 600 km. 2B, was also integrated in Algeria within On Feb. 23, 2012, the former President of The AlSat-2A spacecraft and its the Satellite Development Center, CDS in A l g e r i a , A b d e l a z i z B o u t e f l i k a , payload have been operating nominally Oran. The AlSat-2 program includes the inaugurated the Algerian CDS (Center for since 2011. The imagery of the payload construction of two ground control Satellite Development) on 23, February is of outstanding quality. On July 12, segments as well as one station for high- 2012. This center is located in the town of 2011, the AlSat-2A spacecraft was one speed downlinks of imagery permitting Bir El-Djir in Oran and is an operational year on orbit. spacecraft operations from Algerian entity of Algerian Space Agency, ASAL. Since July 21, 2010, the spacecraft territory, a country of 2.38 million km2 in This infrastructure allowed Algeria to build operations are performed from the size. the third Algerian Alsat-2 B satellite, a twin ALSAT-2 ground segment located in The cooperation agreement makes of the Alsat-2A Earth observation satellite, Ouargla, Algeria. The CDS/ASAL provision for Algerian engineers to work and future satellite series, as well as to o p e r a t i o n t e a m i s n o w f u l l y side-by-side with the EADS Astrium provide the appropriate technological autonomous to control and monitor development team, with intensive training environment to allow engineers and nominally ALSAT-2A and is also able to given in space technology. The AlSat-2 researchers to carry out activities in space handle anomaly situation, analyze 24 SPECIAL REPORT
contract laid the foundation for sustained co-operation with Algerian institutions in the fields of space technology for Earth observation, and its applications, as well as in the field of telecommunications.
The system has so far enabled Algeria to obtain very high quality images for use in a wide variety of applications: cartography, management of agriculture, forestry, water, mineral and oil resources, crop protection, management of natural disasters and land planning.
AlSat-1N, AlSat-1B missions Algeria put together in November 2006 a National Space Plan – Horizon 2020, where Earth Observation has a prominent place, focusing on natural resources, forecasting and monitoring of natural disasters, land management and infrastructure studies. The three satellites were manufactured at Surray Space Technology Limited, SSTL in partnership with Algerian engineers, ALSAT-1B is a 103 kg microsatellite based on the SSTL-100 bus. It carries an Earth landslides, movement of dunes, etc. imagery is analyzed and from where the imaging payload with panchromatic and Hence, it is of strategic importance for spacecraft is being controlled. multispectral cameras. AlSat-2B (117 kg) Algerian Space Agency to master and use AlSat-2A was launched as a secondary carries the NAOMI (New AstroSat Optical space technologies for disaster payload on July 12, 2010 on a PSLV Modular Instrument). AlSat-1N (AlSat- management. Since 2003, there is a launcher. The launch site was the Satish Nano) is a 3U CubeSat carries a technology collaboration between ASAL and INVP Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, demonstration payload as part of a (Institut National de la Protection des Sriharikota, India. Antrix Corporation partnership between ASAL and the UK Vegetaux). The objective is to provide Ltd. of Bangalore, India, is the launch Space Agency. medium resolution satellite imagery as provider and marketing arm of Indian In Algeria, successful satellite design, test well as expertise to identify locust Space Research Organization.. In July and operation experience of Alsat-1 satellite breeding areas in Sahel & Saharan 2009, a Technical Safeguards resulted in the construction of a satellite regions based on ecological conditions Agreement between the US and India assembly integration and test (AI&T) facility analysis by identifying zones on space was signed during Secretary of State in Oran city and the advanced Alsat-2A imagery, with high chlorophyll activities, Hillary Clinton's visit to India. Following satellite, designed by France. After these favorable to locust breeding and this agreement, the US Government has technology and know-how transfer projects, development. given clearance in August 2009 for Algeria is now developing its third satellite launch by ISRO of the Algerian satellites Alsat-2B at its own AI&T facility with its own AlSat-2 is 3-axis stabilized. Attitude ALSat-2A and ALSat-2B, which have US personnel, and will be the third country in sensing is provided by 3 sun sensors, a components, on board an Indian space Africa to reach and benefit from space star sensor, a magnetometer, and an launch vehicle technologies, following South Africa and Inertial Measurement Unit, IRU; actuation The AlSat-2B spacecraft was launched Nigeria. is provided by 4 reaction wheels (each of in 2014 enabling Algeria to obtain very AlSat-2 spacecraft 0.12 Nms) and magnetorquers. A GPS high quality images for use in a wide AlSat-2 is the first Earth observation satellite receiver is used for onboard location and variety of applications, including system of the AstroSat-100 (AS-100) family; time services. The spacecraft has a body- c a r t o g r a p h y, m a n a g e m e n t o f its design was based on the Myriade pointing capability of ±30º in cross-track. agriculture, forestry, water, mineral and platform of CNES, a Myriade heritage of The Electric Power Subsystem, EPS oil resources, crop protection, CNES DEMETER and Parasol missions, features an AsGa solar array providing a management of natural disasters and plus four Essaim microsatellites built by power of 180 W (EOL). In addition, there land planning. EADS Astrium for DGA, France. is a Li-ion battery of 15 Ah capacity. A The spacecraft structure is an aluminum hydrazine propulsion subsystem (N2H4, AlSat-2B was launched on September box of size: 60 cm x 60 cm x 100 cm. Figure ÄV = 70 m/s) is being used for on-orbit 26, 2016 as a secondary payload on the 2 shows the platform mechanical maintenance. The spacecraft has a mass PSLV-C35 vehicle of ISRO. The launch accommodation; all 4 panels of the structure of 120 kg. The design life is 5 years.\ site was Satish Dhawan Space Center, fold out during integration, allowing easy SDSC on the east coast of India. The access to all equipment during platform AlSat-2 features an onboard Solid-State primary payload on this flight was integration. This accommodation allows a Recorder, SSR of 64 Gbit capacity. SCATSat-1 of ISRO good level of flexibility with respect to the Communications are provided in X-band ALSAT-2A was built and tested by Airbus payload size. with a downlink rate of 60 Mbit/s. For Defence and Space in Toulouse in TT&C support, 2 S-band transceivers are partnership with 30 engineers from In Feb. 2015, Algeria was exposed to quite a utilized. The Telemetry, Tracking and ASAL, while ALSAT-2B was integrated few natural disasters such as locust Control and payload data are being by ASAL's engineers themselves in- invasion, forest fires, floods, earthquakes, acquired at the Arzew station complex in c o u n t r y a t A l g e r i a ' s S a t e l l i t e western Algeria (Oran region), where the 25 SPECIAL REPORT
Conversely, the star tracker allows compensating for long term gyro natural drift and gyro-scale factor errors during maneuvers. for instance. while a star tracker provides low frequency long- term stable attitude measurements, the attitude computed from the high- frequency gyro measurements is only short-term stable. The motivation to fuse star tracker and gyro is to generate a long-term stable attitude estimate at gyro measurement frequency of attenuated noise compared to the star tracker measurement and, hence, to optimally bridge periods where no star tracker measurement is available. In addition to the improved attitude information, the estimator provides an estimate of the gyro angular rate bias. Figure 5 shows a comparison of the inertial attitude (gyro measurement), the optical attitude (SST measurement) and the estimated attitude from the Development Centre (UDPS) in Oran. ALSAT-2B delivers a high-resolution fused (gyro plus SST) data. ALSAT-2B has a mass of 125 kg and has a products consisting of a 2.5m resolution metric-cube size of 60 x 60 x 130 cm. The for the panchromatic band, and a 10 m In-orbit performance: satellite will operate in low Earth orbit and resolution for the four multispectral Throughout the last 6 years in orbit, has a design life of five years. ALSAT -B's bands, with a 17.5 km swath for both AlSat-2A has provided a great great success demonstrates that ASAL's modes. The attitude determination performance in terms of AOCS stability engineers are fully competent and have during the nominal mode is carried out by and agility. However, the reaction acquired a great autonomy through this three gyroscopes and a star tracker. The wheels, like all the equipments in program gyrostellar estimator is based on Kalman space, are facing the external harsh filtering; it is first initialized during the environment to which the Fault Status of the AlSat-2 missions coarse pointing mode before transition to Detection Isolation and Recovery The Algerian Space Agency is operating the nominal mode reason for which the strategy has been implemented to the AlSat-2 system, a constellation of two estimator has enough time to converge in overcome these constraints especially identical satellites AlSat-2A and AlSat-2B order to be ready for the different nominal for the Single Upset Events. It consists providing products of 2.5 m resolution for mode pointing. on setting the concerned wheel OFF the panchromatic band, and a 10 m then ON, and currently, the wheels are resolution in four multispectral bands, on An accurate attitude information is often still working without any problems. a swath of 17.5 swath for both modes. essential for space applications. Several attitude sensors have been developed Sensor complement The ALSAT-2B satellite is in orbit since 26 with star trackers (SST) being the most NAOMI (New AstroSat Optical September 2016. It accompanies the accurate ones for three-dimensional Modular Instrument) orientation measurements. In order to ALSAT-2A satellite to form a constellation NAOMI is a high-resolution imager further improve the attitude accuracy, of two satellites. The main tasks are designed and developed at EADS multi-sensor data fusion is the common cartography, management of agriculture, Astrium SAS: The instrument design is approach. forestry, water, crop protection, mainly driven by mission parameters management of natural disasters and and detector characteristics. The Time Sensor fusion generally refers to the land planning. Delay Integration, TDI mode in the Pan process of combining measurements band enables to reduce the pupil size from several different sensors in order to The attitude determination and control for a given Ground Sample Distance, obtain a better result than considering subsystem is composed of three sun GSD. The pupil diameter is no more each sensor separately. The idea is to sensors used during the initial attitude sized to comply with SNR requirements fuse sensors with complementary acquisition, one magnetometer used which can be achieved by increasing measure properties to combine their during the first phase and also during the the number of TDI stages and is only desired and cancel out their unwanted coarse pointing mode, three gyroscopes driven by MTF (Modulation Transfer characteristics. and one star tracker initialized during the Function) requirement. coarse pointing mode and used for the The data fusion is usually done in an nominal mode. The imager provides imagery of 2.5 m in estimation filter, so commonly this A s a c t u a t o r s , t h e r e i s t h r e e Pan and 4 multispectral (MS) bands of method is referred to as inertial stellar or magnetorquers used for detumbling at the 10 m GSD. The optics system of the gyro stellar estimation. The association beginning, after that they will be used for instrument employs state-of-the-art of the sensors gyro/star tracker is very wheel unloading. Four reaction wheels techniques such as SiC-100 (silicon complementary and natural. Gyro mounted in pyramidal configuration carbide) material for the mirrors and the propagation allows to smooth-out star aimed to increase the angular momentum telescope structure, specific detectors, tracker noise and to continue ensuring and finally a propulsion subsystem with and a modular video chain design. four thrusters for orbit control. accurate attitude determination when no star tracker (SST) updating is possible.
26 SPECIAL REPORT
Alcomsat-1 Communications Satellite’
Algeria's first communications satellite Alcomsat-1 was launched in December 2017. The satellite was deployed into the geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) by Long March 3B (LM-3B) launch vehicle from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province, China. Positioned at the 24.8°W orbital position, the satellite will provide services, including telecommunications, broadband internet, audio transmission, broadcast and television, satellite-based navigation, remote education, as well as enterprise and emergency communications. The coverage areas include Algeria, Sahel, and other regions in North Africa. The Alcomsat-1 project is part of Algeria's National Space Programme (NSP), which is intended to increase the nation's Alcomsat-1 telecommunications capabilities while platform. With a liftoff weight of 5.2 contributing to economic and social metric tons and a designed life span of communication development 15 years, the satellite will be used for a capabilities . wide variety of public services such as The satellite provides efficient and television broadcasting, emergency The Alcomsat-1 telecommunication secured communications Network, while communications, remote education satellite incorporates a total of 33 Increasing the capacities of the national a n d s a t e l l i t e - b a s e d s i g n a l transponders, including 19 Ku-band, 12 telecommunications network; as well as augmentation, according to Great Wall Ka-band, and two L-band transponders. access to information; continuity of Industry. With a launch mass of Nine of the 19 Ku-band transponders communications services case of majors 5,225kg, the satellite carries 588kg of are used to broadcast TV and digital disasters. it will also respond to national payload, which requires approximately radio channels, while the remaining are needs in : communications, telephony, 8kW of power. The satellite is equipped used to provide communications in b r o a d c a s t i n g , e d u c a t i o n a n d with two deployable solar arrays, which North African regions, including Tunisia, e-health.Having access to the services are capable of producing 10.5kW of Northern Chad, and Northern Sudan at offered by communications satellite electricity each that is stored in on- speeds of 2Mbps. constitutes a priority of the National Space board batteries. The three-axis The Ka-band transponders are used to Program (NSP), for this reason ASAL stabilised satellite employs a main deliver high-speed broadband internet plans to launch and operate a propulsion system to climb towards the to the Algerian territory at speeds of GTO, while its altitude is controlled communications satellite “Alcomsat-1” 20Mbps. The satellite also features X- using reaction control thrusters. The band, UHF and EHF transponders as satellite also features anti-jamming well as two transmission and three In December 2013, ASAL selected China capabilities. Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) receiver antennas. as the prime contractor to design, The operations of Alcomsat-1 are develop, manufacture, assemble, test, controlled from two ground control Algerie Telecom launches a n d l a u n c h t h e A l c o m s a t - 1 stations, one in Médéa Province of consumer satellite communication satellite. The contract also Algeria, and the other in Ouargla broadband covers the supply of two ground control Province. The ground segment is stations for use by the ASAL to control the installed with 0.45m antenna device satellite. The satellite was manufactured and state-of-the-art equipment to Algerie Telecom Satellite (ATS), a by China Academy of Space Technology e n s u r e r e l i a b l e s a t e l l i t e subsidiary of state-backed incumbent (CAST) under a subcontract with CGWIC. communications to the users. operator Algerie Telecom, has revealed Other contractors involved in the that it will augment its B2B-focused Alcomsat-1 satellite programme are In April, 2018, Algeria's first portfolio by launching residential China Satellite Launch and Tracking communications satellite began satellite broadband internet services in Control General (CLTC), China operation, according to China Great September this year. As reported by Aerospace Science and Technology Wall Industry Corp, the project's chief Agence Ecofin, ATS' CEO Mohamed Corporation (CASC), and China Satellite contractor. An in-orbit delivery Anouar Benabdelouahad noted that the Communications. ceremony for the Alcomsat-1 was held user cost for the consumer broadband at the Algerian Space Agency's service will be 'a little higher than that of A l c o m s a t - 1 w a s d e s i g n e d a n d headquarters in Algiers. It is the ninth ADSL … justified by the cost of manufactured by the China Academy of telecom satellite China has provided to equipment'. The service will focus on Space Technology, part of China foreign nations and the first space isolated regions, unserved border areas Aerospace Science and Technology Corp, cooperation project between China and and other under-served zones, using and is based on the DFH-4 satellite Algeria, the statement said. bandwidth of the Algerian-owned SPECIAL REPORT
The Algerian government has also revealed that it has interconnected 4,000 health facilities across the country. This development was revealed by the country's Minister of Health, Population a n d H o s p i t a l R e f o r m M o k h t a r Hasbellaoui. The project was undertaken by Algerian Ministry of Post, Telecommunications, Technology and Digital Economy, and was unveiled by the Minister at the wilaya of Relizane. The project is expected to bring about the establishment of a health sector-specific data system, facilitate the implementation of procedures and examinations such as medical telediagnosis, and improve the conditions of care of patients. Algeria's first communications satellite Alcomsat-1 was launched in December 2017. The satellite was deployed into the geosynchronous transfer orbit by Long March 3B launch vehicle from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province, China. Positioned at the 24.8°W orbital position, the satellite will provide services, including telecommunications, broadband internet, audio transmission, broadcast and television, satellite-based navigation, remote education, as well as enterprise and satellite Alcomsat-1. The project telephone and internet networks. When emergency communications. The supports the government's aims to demand outweighs capacity, ATS said it coverage areas include Algeria, Sahel, and reduce the digital divide between rural will link up with other satellites to satisfy other regions in North Africa. and urban dwellers. its customers until Algeria launches a The Alcomsat-1 project is part of Algeria's second telecoms satellite. National Space Programme, which is Internet, telephony and This move is an attempt by ATS to intended to increase the nation's leverage Algeria's national satellite, the telecommunications capabilities while VOD service via Alcomsat Alcomsat-1, to boost its revenues. ATS contributing to economic and social currently provides VSAT, geolocation development. The satellite is operated by Algérie Telecom Satellite (ATS), a and maritime telecommunications the Algerian Space Agency. subsidiary of Algérie Telecom, has services. In 2017, it recorded a turnover The new health project is an extension of introduced a triple play service to provide of 6,007 billion dinars (US$52,861,600), the telemedicine network of Algeria (RT- customers with internet, telephone and against 3,378 billion (US$29,726,400) in DZ) that was officially launched on April 5, video-on-demand (VOD) via satellite. 2016. The company posted a net profit 2016. It is made up of the Internet interconnection of five university hospital ATS looks to offer a pack that includes a of 1,002 billion dinars (US$ 8,817,600). "2017 was the best business year for centers, twelve public hospitals and digital demodulator loaded with TV hospitals. National Agency for Health ATS since its creation in 2006," said channels, high speed internet, telephony Documentation is a technical piloting and VOD. The package was delivered in Benabdelouahad. For 2018, ATS has platform. partnership with two public companies, targeted surpassing 7 billion dinars Through the national network of the National Enterprise of Electronic (US$61,600,000) in turnover and is telemedicine that will soon join 4000 health Industries (ENIE) and the Algerian aiming to achieve this by adding the facilities, Algeria wants to improve access Industry of Telephony (INATEL). ATS is triple play offering. of its populations to quality health care. considering local production of the packs Alcomsat-1 allows for broadcast of 20 Populations residing in remote locations in order to reduce cost. Mb/s-broadband internet on the KA are the most targeted. ATS President and CEO, Mohamed band that covers the entire Algerian The Alcomsat-1 telecommunication AnouarBenabdelouahad, said his territory; it can also reach other African satellite incorporates a total of 33 company is talking to ENIE and INATEL countries via the Ku Band.The transponders, including 19 Ku-band, 12 Ka- for the production of the turnkey that Alcomsat-1 satellite which is scheduled band, and two L-band transponders. Nine would include an antenna, a modem and to be operational six months after its of the 19 Ku-band transponders are used to a satellite receiver. launch on December 10 is for broadcast TV and digital radio channels, "This project aims to provide a service telecommunications, television while the remaining are used to provide communications in North African regions, dedicated to individuals through the broadcasting and internet purposes. It has 33 transponders of which 9 are including Tunisia, Northern Chad, and r e c e n t l y l a u n c h e d A l g e r i a n Northern Sudan at speeds of 2Mbps. dedicated to the broadcasting of telecommunications satellite, Alcomsat- The Ka-band transponders are used to 1. The acquisition of a pack of ATS television channels and digital radios. deliver high-speed broadband internet to allows the consumer to have only one the Algerian territory at speeds of 20Mbps. antenna with added value," he said. Interconnecting 4,000 The satellite also features X-band, UHF The President added that the residential health facilities via satellite and EHF transponders as well as two KA band capacity will cover areas not transmission and three receiver antennas. served or poorly served by terrestrial
IN THE NEWS ASIA
Satellite internet first and only satellite operator in the were exploited on a paid basis. Over this South Caucasus, Azerkosmos OJSC period, via Azerspace-2 Azercosmos connects Spirit of provides high-quality satellite services generated the revenue amounted $14.1 Tasmania passengers for the telecommunications sector and in million. the field of topographic survey. The Thanks to the successful commercial strategic development plans of the activities implemented via Azerspace-2, The spirit of Tasmania passengers company include expanding the Azercosmos has further strengthened its travelling between Devonport and coverage and range of services. position as a reliable partner to provide Melbourne will be able to access satellite satellite services in the regional market. internet from IPSTAR Broadband. The In 2018, Azercosmos launched the service reaches users through IPSTAR's second telecommunications satellite Thaicom 4, a gyrostablised 1.5 metre Azerspace-2 into the target orbit, China's first polar antenna with a 16W KU band transmitter. located in a geostationary orbit of 45 observation satellite Called NAVA, the service can be degrees east longitude. The main accessed on any wi-fi enabled mobile satellite control center is located on the supports polar research device including laptops, tablets and 37th kilometer of the Baku-Shamakhi mobile phones at $20 per crossing or $12 highway, and the backup one is located China's first polar observation satellite, per hour. The satellite internet will also in Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan Autonomous the BNU-1, has successfully obtained improve the crew services by enabling Republic (NAR) in the Nehejir data on polar regions, according to the them to remain connected at all times and settlement of the Julfa district. The first satellite's chief scientist. After nearly one able to check booking details and make communications satellite of Azerbaijan, month of in-orbit testing, the satellite is amendments in real-time. Azerspace-1, was launched into working normally and conducting full- geostationary orbit at 46 degrees east coverage observation of the Antarctic and "We're continually looking for ways to longitude on Feb. 8, 2013. The satellite the Arctic every day, Cheng Xiao, the chief improve the on board experience for our was launched from the Kourou space scientist, said at the China Symposium on passengers and by introducing the NAVA center in French Guiana by Arianespace Polar Science 2019. system they can now enjoy a fast seamless service throughout their entire Cheng said the satellite data connection journey," Spirit of Tasmania CIO Simon Telecommunications system launched on Tuesday allows P e a r c e . " F r o m a n o p e r a t i o n a l Satellite, Azerspace-2 scientists around the world to obtain polar perspective, by ensuring a constant observation data acquire by the satellite. connection between our crew on board celebrates one year in Registered users can also propose new and our staff on shore, we are in the best space observation requirements. The satellite possible position to continue providing continuously monitored a gigantic iceberg exceptional service to our passenger and This day, September 26 marks the first breaking away from the Amery Ice Shelf in freight clients." Onboard the system s east Antarctica in September, helping limit distributed using Cisco wireless network. anniversary of the launch of the third satellite of the Republic of Azerbaijan, its impact on submerged buoys and Azerspace-2. Under the leadership of investigation ships in the surrounding "Just as we are striving to provide high- area. speed satellite internet to families and Mr. President IlhamAliyev, Azerspace-2 was successfully launched into orbit on businesses in rural and remote Australia, Cheng said the satellite will help reduce so too are we providing access to September 26 at 02.38 am GMT+4 from Guiana Space Center in French Guiana. China's reliance on foreign satellites for passengers and crew on one of the polar observation data. "The satellite's world's most famous sea crossings," During the following months, the satellite has reached its final orbital position, and spatial resolution reaches 75 meters, IPSTAR MD Shannon Fisher said. which offers more detailed information on "People want to share their experiences all the testing processes were successfully implemented. In January the ice cover and the sea ice," Cheng said. with friends and loved ones instantly and The satellite will also support China's NAVA will enable passengers on Spirit of 2019, the satellite control was completely transferred to Azercosmos, upcoming 36th Antarctic expedition by Tasmania to share photographs and other enhancing its navigation capability in the content as if they were onshore.” and in February 2019, Azerspace-2 started its commercial activity. polar ice zone. Developed by the Beijing Normal University and Shenzhen New TV channels start The coverage area of Azerspace-2 Aerospace Dongfanghong Development includes the countries of Europe, Ltd., the satellite weighs 16 kg and is broadcasting via Central and South Asia, the Middle East equipped with two cameras and one Azerspace-1 satellite and Sub-Saharan Africa. The satellite receiver. It has great significance in offers high technological capabilities, a promoting the research of polar regions and global climate change. Azercosmos, the Azerbaijani satellite wider coverage area, and high-quality operator, has signed an agreement on services to meet the growing demand for broadcasting Georgian TV channels network services of public and private Lumina Broadcast MtavariArxi, Music Box, and the Russian sectors in the region. ILLI TV, Trend reports referring to the Systems Australia and operator. According to the agreement, The resources of Azerspace-2 enabled Integrasys enter into beginning in October 2019, the TV Azercosmos to attract new customers. It channels are broadcast via the is worth to note the names of EUTELSAT new partnership Azerspace-1 satellite at a frequency of S.A. of France and the leading satellite 11095/H/30000. services provider of USA Intelsat among Lumina Broadcast Systems Australia and them. Today, Azerspace-2 broadcasts Integrasys are pleased to announce our These channels broadcast public, more than 80 encrypted TV channels business partnership for Australia to economic, analytical, sports, music, over the African region. represent the award winning Integrasys entertainment and cultural programs in During its seven-month commercial Satellite Carrier Monitoring Systems used Georgian and Russian languages. The activity, 80% of Azerspace-2 capacities by many Satellite Teleports for monitoring VSAT Systems around the world. 28 IN THE NEWS ASIA
Integrasys have several modules telecom and government services.” unstable communication in the regions. available for Satellite Operators, Teleport Liu Qiang, Chairman of the Board, China Additional base stations will be installed in Operators, VSAT Installers and SNG Great Wall Industry Corporation, said: cooperation with local authorities and Operators. We are very excited to work “We are very excited to welcome telecom operators. For example, with such an energetic company like Thaicom as a partner and support the entrepreneurs built special facilities and Integrasys, they have a great product company's future growth and entry into mobile operators will install its stations in the and excellent understanding of the new digital service markets enabled by Shchuchinsk-Burabai resort area. The requirements needed to optimise space and aerial technologies China same facilities will be installed in Almaty and satellite platforms for the best Great Wall is known for. Satellite and the Pavlodar Region. performance at the teleport and in the aerial technologies enable smart “The ministry is also working to introduce a field. applications and data analysis for these 5G network in Kazakhstan. The road map Lumina Broadcast Systems Australia markets. China Great Wall's know-how has been approved. The 5G network tests would like to welcome Arnaud and vast experience in space and aerial were conducted in Almaty and Nur-Sultan. A Barthélemy who has joined our team to technologies including Unmanned test is planned in Shymkent this October,” manage the Integrasys products to Aerial Vehicles (UAV) makes us an ideal said Zhumagaliyev. market, being one of the former Newtec partner for Thaicom to grow their co-founders since 1995, Arnaud comes business further.” with a wealth of knowledge and EOS acquires EM experience in the satellite technology Solutions and business around the world. 97 percent of rural settlements to have Electro Optic Systems has agreed to Thaicom and China broadband internet acquire space communications company EM Solutions Pty Limited (EMS), a leading Great Wall Sign MoU on access by end of 2022 Australian technology company in the field UAV and Space of microwave satellite communications. EMS is based in Brisbane. Technology Ninety-seven percent of rural EMS will form part of EOS Communication settlements or more than 5,000 villages Cooperation . Systems. will gain broadband internet access by EOS recently announced (30 September the end of 2022 and satellite technology 2019) that it had achieved a number of Thaicom Public Company Limited has will be technically feasible for the advances which together enable next- entered into a Memorandum of remaining 3 percent, reported Minister generation optical communication to and Understanding (MoU) with China Great of Digital Development, Innovation and from space at bandwidths up to 20 times Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC) A e r o s p a c e I n d u s t r y higher than microwave technology, and at China's leader in commercial launch AskarZhumagaliyev. lower cost. However, the company has long services, satellite systems, and space “Internet access in rural areas is a basic recognised that over $400 billion is currently technology cooperation. element in the implementation of invested in microwave communication The companies will cooperate in the area projects as part of the Digital infrastructure in space, and that this sunk of application development for Kazakhstan state programme. This will cost and the all-weather capabilities of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) and provide access to obtaining electronic microwave technology will ensure a long- BeiDou China's proprietary Global public services, healthcare services, term role for microwave technology in space Navigation Satellite System (BDS). The education and e-commerce. This will communications. deal is part of Thaicom's ambition to reduce the digital divide between the city EMS is a world leader in on-the-move diversify its business and enter the and the village and provide residents satellite communications. It is a major emerging next technology markets with the opportunity to use digital provider of satellite communication systems through the integration of space, air, technologies and give an impetus to the for the Australian Defence Force, including ground and maritime networks. development of the economy,” Royal Australian Navy ships, and has been AnantKaewruamvongs, Chief Executive Zhumagaliyev said. widely recognised for its advanced Officer Thaicom, commented: “China The country has access to broadband technology, winning awards such as the Great Wall is an important strategic internet services in 117 cities and 3,324 Essington Lewis Trophy (2018) Department partner for Thaicom. As we are defining rural settlements. They are provided of Defence SME Team of the Year, for our new vision and making inroads into with various technologies, including innovation in defence communication. new business areas, the next phase of networks of fibre optic lines, 3G and 4G. EMS' on-the-move radio and satellite our company and future growth is fueled Kazakhstan ranked 21st in the world by p r o d u c t s d e l i v e r h i g h s p e e d by new partnerships and Thaicom's the number of mobile subscribers in telecommunications anywhere in the world integrated next generation service 2018. The number of internet users was to its customers. It is a trusted provider of platform.” 81.3 percent in 2018 and Kazakhstan secure and resilient communications for key Anant added: “With the fast growing ranked 45th in the world ranking. customers such as defence forces and number of connected devices, terrestrial The government plans to build fiber- government agencies internationally. networks alone cannot keep up with the optic lines and LTE networks (4G) to EOS has acquired 100% of all issued dramatic growth in data traffic and further provide rural areas with internet shares in EMS in exchange for 4,271,357 requirement for everywhere connectivity in 2018-2021. EOS ordinary shares and a cash payment in the digital age, where a vast number of According to the plan, fibre-optic lines of $1.485 million. These new 4,271,357 emerging new markets and services will be built in 1,250 rural settlements. As ordinary shares will generally be subject to need to be accommodated. Space and of the first half of 2019, fibre-optic lines a six month escrow period. At the average airborne communication infrastructures were connected to 83 settlements, EOS share price for September, this values are the backbone of the smart connected including 85 healthcare and 76 EMS at approximately $26 million. solutions for the emerging digital educational facilities. Some 685 villages Although fundamentally a strategic ecosystem on the ground. Therefore, our will be connected to internet by the end acquisition, this transaction will immediately next generation service platform seeks of 2019 and 509 villages will be be earnings-per-share accretive to EOS to integrate space, air, ground and connected in 2020. because on its existing contracts EMS will maritime networks for agriculture, The ministry will work to identify contribute a higher proportion of EOS EBIT
29 IN THE NEWS ASIA in FY2020 than the proportion of EOS' Doc990, Sri Lanka's pioneering digital fully diluted shares issued as health solutions service provider, recently Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing consideration. announced its partnership with Western C o m m i t t e e o n P o s t s , EMS is presently achieving EBIT growth Hospital to facilitate an Ongoing Number Telecommunications and IT Affairs around 10% and EOS expects to Service for patients. This latest and Ministry AKM Rahmatullah, BHTPA accelerate this growth. EOS' own innovative new service offering updates the Managing Director HosneAra Begum, forecast of growth exceeding 45% for the live doctor channeling queue in real-time ICT Division Senior Secretary NM next two years will not be reduced by this via the Doc990 mobile app or doc.lk ZeaulAlam and Bangladesh Computer acquisition. website, resulting in unmatched Samity President MdShahid-Ul-Munir c o n v e n i e n c e a n d e ff i c i e n t t i m e were, among others, present. EMS will immediately form an Australian management for patients as they access Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority base for EOS' new Communication health services. Introduced for the 1st time (BHTPA), Information Communication Systems business, adding to EOS' in Sri Lanka, the Ongoing Number Services Technology (ICT) Division, Bangladesh existing Defence Systems and Space looks at serving patients and customers Computer Samity (BCS) and Idea Project Systems business segments. The EMS more effectively, while attempting to reduce jointly organised the expo with the theme senior management team of Dr Rowan patient crowds at hospitals, and was “Made in Bangladesh: Nothing is Gilmore (CEO), Dr John Ness (CTO) previously rolled out at the Asiri Group of Impossible'. and Mr Peter Bradley (Chief Engineer) Hospitals and Nawaloka Negombo. will maintain their roles in EMS as EOS executives. EMS staff, now numbering A joint venture between Sri Lanka's premier LeoLabs Unveils Kiwi 50, will be expanded. connectivity provider, Dialog Axiata PLC, Space Radar and three leading private hospital groups; EMS has sector-leading products. EOS Asiri Hospital Holdings PLC, Nawaloka plans to expand the market reach of Hospitals PLC and Ceylon Hospitals PLC LeoLabs, Inc., introduced a new era of these products through its own customer (Durdans), Digital Health aims to implement transparency in LEO, with the launch of network, and add space-based and and develop a state-of-the-art, integrated, its Kiwi Space Radar (KSR). As the first optical communication capabilities to e-commerce infrastructure for Sri Lanka's commercial radar to track objects in LEO EMS' ground-based technology. This will healthcare sector, through the provision of a smaller than 10 centimeters, the KSR allow EOS Communication Systems to digitally-enabled medical appointment sets a new standard for tracking the full p r o v i d e a b r o a d r a n g e o f management for healthcare providers, range of threats to satellites from orbital communications solutions to existing extending to several innovative new debris. Located in New Zealand, the KSR EMS and EOS customers, as well as the elements for Sri Lanka's digital health care also expands LeoLabs' radar network to broader market. value chain. the southern hemisphere, and marks the first of a series of next generation EOS will now offer customers globally a Patients can make appointments by calling LeoLabs radars to be deployed globally. range of proven communication 990, visiting www.doc.lk or via the Doc990 solutions which are both leading edge mobile app available on the Google Play "The Kiwi Space Radar raises the bar on and future-proofed. These products will Store and Apple App Store, while the addressing the threat of collisions that offer EOS customers a secure transition Ongoing Number Service can be accessed have never before been tracked in LEO," to the future of ultra-broadband space through the mobile app and website. said Michael Nicolls, co-founder and communications. LeoLabs Chief Technology Officer. "By operating at a higher frequency than our EOS estimates that of $400 billion of WITSA sees remarkable earlier sensors, the KSR was designed to space communications infrastructure progress in Bangladesh track an estimated 250,000 additional which must be renewed in the next 20 objects down to 2 centimeters in size. years, at least $120 billion will require a ICT sector These objects account for most of the risk combination of performance features of collisons in space, and KSR is the first across microwave and optical domains World Information Technology and Service big step towards addressing that risk. It which EOS is now equipped to provide. Alliance (WITSA) Secretary General Dr will enable thousands of new satellites to The leading edge of this $120 billion in James Poisant has highly appreciated safely use LEO." procurements is imminent. EOS will Bangladesh's progress in the ICT over the "The Kiwi Space Radar represents a compete in this market. last couple of years. “Bangladesh has made huge step in executing on our vision for In addition to its role in anchoring the remarkable progress in ICT development,” customers and investors," said Dan new EOS Communication Systems he said while addressing the inaugural Ceperley, co-founder and CEO of segment in Australia, EMS will session of the three-day first-ever 'Digital LeoLabs. "As thousands of satellites and immediately provide a platform for Device and Innovation Expo-2019' in the new constellations deploy into LEO, our expansion of EOS' other Chinabusi nelaunchedss city two. satelliteHighlighting for its GPSsystem various areas (Source: of China progress, Daily mission is to provide a backdrop of data- segments. EOS Space and Defence including people's access to internet and driven transparency and certainty to segments are currently limited by access mobile phones, DrPoisant said digital age support satellite operators, regulators, to suitable researchers, scientists, changes everything. space agencies, and industries that rely engineers and technicians and adding a on satellite services. Today's KSR Brisbane site of operations to these The number of mobile phone subscribers in announcement proves a foundational rapidly-growing businesses will increase Bangladesh has reached 162.6 million piece of this vision. Our radar network the catchment pool for their recruitment while internet subscribers 98.136 million. constitutes a clear strategic advantage by 300%.. The WITSA secretary general also for us in building the leading LEO services appreciated efforts of Bangladeshi ICT platform and the 'catalogue of the future' Sri Lanka's digital manufacturers, their designs and for low Earth orbit." innovations. Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Kiwi Space Radar --- Innovation health solutions service Momen and State Minister for ICT Division Highlights provider partners with Zunaid Ahmed Palak inaugurated the expo In addition to tracking small debris, the at the Bangabandhu International Kiwi Space Radar incorporates other Western Hospital Conference Centre (BICC) in the city. significant features:
30 IN THE NEWS ASIA
Automated search capability. As have found strong and reliable partners for need to worry about continuing to LeoLabs builds out the LEO catalog of the distribution of BBC channels into Asia,” communicate whilst traveling. This new the future, the KSR provides the ability said Shad Hashmi, SVP, BBC Studios. market-leading package shows a continued to automatically search, discover “MEASAT and Globecast have addressed commitment to providing the very best objects and events. Generating orbital our business needs and we look forward to service to customers.” The service is information without the need for human continue partnering with them in the years currently available to post-paid customers intervention will provide a more timely to come.” MEASAT-3 is collocated with the that purchase the inflight bundle and will and complete picture for SSA and traffic MEASAT-3a and MEASAT-3b satellites at enable TrueMoveThailand'scustomers to management services. Asia's prime video hot slot of 91.5°E. The enjoy more value and convenience when Southern hemisphere coverage. The three satellites form the region's strongest travelling. KSR is the first phased-array radar of its video neighbourhood, providing UHD, HD Foxtel selects class located in the southern and SD channels across Asia, Australia, hemisphere. It improves frequency of East Africa and Eastern Europe. The CommScope to redefine revisits, enables better orbit MEASAT fleet will be further strengthened assessment, and improves monitoring with the addition of MEASAT-3d in 2021. TV viewing in Australia of maneuvers and events. Improved precision in measurements CommScope announced its continued and orbit determination. Because the Panasonic Avionics partnership with Foxtel, Australia's leading KSR dramatically increases the Pay TV operator, to bring The New Foxtel quantity and quality of observations for subsidiary Aeromobile Experience to subscribers across the each satellite and piece of orbital country. debris, LeoLabs can deliver greater partners with Truemove accuracy and timeliness to support Thailand to enable The New Foxtel Experience leverages mission decisions and threat CommScope technology to deliver assessment. customers to connect thousands of hours of TV and on-demand movies as well as access to Netflix® for whilst inflight subscribers through Foxtel's iQ4 set-top BBC Studios renews box. Whether subscribers are streaming distribution deal with Panasonic Avionics Corporation videos, recording live programming, or subsidiary, AeroMobile, and leading browsing through Foxtel's massive on- MEASAT in telecommunications operator TrueMove demand library, the iQ4 makes it simple to Thailand, a subsidiary of True Corporation get everything they want all in one place. partnership with Plc, have partnered to launch an inflight Globecast data roaming bundle for their customers. CommScope's Professional Services The inflight bundle, which commercially group worked with Foxtel to deliver the launched in September 2019, will place MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn. Bhd., iQ4's full-stack software platform, which inflight mobility at the heart of TrueMove in partnership with Globecast, has integrates to multiple back-office systems Thailand's roaming packages. As the first announced that BBC Studios, the to provide a seamless broadcast and IP operator in the country to launch an inflight commercial arm of the BBC, has connected user experience. The iQ4 roaming bundle, this agreement further renewed its agreement to distribute its combines broadcast satellite and IP cements TrueMove Thailand's position as BBC channels across Asia via the capabilities in a single, powerful device a market innovator and respected service MEASAT-3 satellite. “We are delighted capable of delivering 4K broadcast provider, with a highly competitive offering to continue the partnership with resolution, 802.11ac Wi-Fi®, and a 1TB that brings more value and a greater Globecast, supporting BBC Studio's hard-drive—allowing subscribers to watch experience for their 28 Million+ customer- channel distribution across Asia,” said what they want, when they want, the way it base. YauChyong Lim, Chief Operating was meant to be watched. Officer, MEASAT. “This service Customers who subscribe to the inflight extension with MEASAT and Globecast “Our work with Foxtel highlights our service will be able to use their mobile shows the strength of our 91.5°E video continued leadership and combined phones to browse the internet, send and neighbourhood for broadcasters.” expertise in professional services and receive emails, texts and calls and stay in software integration,” said Steve touch with friends on social networks, The channels include BBC Earth HD, McCaffery, senior vice president of Service whilst travelling on AeroMobile equipped which inspires audiences by sharing Providers, International, CommScope. “We a i r c r a f t . M s . the incredible wonders of the universe; are setting a new standard for the television ParinthonTansuthepverawong , General CBeebies HD, which provides experience by combining the latest Manager of True Corporation, says: "Our preschool age programming to technology in support of the growing TrueMove H post-paid customers expect a encourage learning through play; and number of video formats that consumers high-quality user experience, and through BBC Lifestyle Asia, which provides a enjoy. Foxtel's new iQ4 user interface our partnership with AeroMobile we are wealth of inspiration for home, family brings it all together in a single, seamless now able to offer valued inflight roaming and life. Globecast provides MEASAT experience, and we're delighted by its service at an attractive price. We are satellite capacity, ground and uplink positive reception in Australia.” delighted to bring this new service to our services to BBC Studios, carrying these customers, who will be able to enjoy channels to viewers across the Asian seamless, high-quality and secure market. Shakunt Malhotra, Managing Ka-band connectivity for roaming at 20,000 feet.” Director, Globecast, said, “We have a China's aircraft longstanding, productive partnership Kevin Rogers, Sr Director Mobility with MEASAT in Asia, delivering Panasonic Avionics, CEO AeroMobile, channels across the region and we are adds: "We are pleased to partner AirNet Technology Inc, an in-flight solution pleased that BBC Studios has chosen withTrueMove Thailand and broaden the provider focusing on connectivity, to renew their services with us.” reach of our connectivity services across entertainment and digital multimedia in this region. With the new inflight roaming China, has announced that one of its “With MEASAT and Globecast, we bundle, TrueMove's customers no longer subsidiaries, Air Esurfing Information 31 IN THE NEWS ASIA
Technology Co Ltd, has signed a venture with U.S. sports and entertainment allows customers to 'come and go' from a strategic cooperation agreement with company Comcast Spectator has been conversation but also means they no Lufthansa Technik, a provider of officially launched as it looks to expand its longer need to wait on the phone or a chat technical aircraft services, to provide presence in the fast-growing gaming queue; making it easier than ever for inflight connectivity retrofit packages market. SK telecom CS T1 Co.'s global customers to engage with us when they to aircraft in the Chinese market. headquarters office will be in Seoul, need help.” During the term of this agreement, according to the South Korean As a first for Optus, customers can start a Lufthansa Technik will design and telecommunications giant. SK Telecom is Messaging conversation online through certify Ka-band-based connectivity the largest shareholder of the joint venture the web, and then jump across to the My retrofit packages for both the Airbus with a 55 percent stake. The JV launch Optus App on their mobile device to A320ceo and A320neo aircraft families came after SK Telecom and Comcast continue their interaction if that's easier. as well as the Boeing 737NG and Spectator signed a strategic partnership at “One of Messaging's most important 737MAX. Lufthansa Technik will also the MWC Barcelona, the largest mobile features is that our customers and care work with ARE to provide Civil Aviation show of the year, in February. teams have access to the full conversation Administration of China (CAAC)- The joint venture will focus on esports history which eliminates the need for validated European Union Aviation team operations, content development, customers having to repeat themselves as Safety Agency (EASA) Supplemental sponsorships and broadcasting deals to conversations can be picked up at any Type Certificates (VSTC) to support cash in on the fast growing entertainment time by our support teams,” MrBayliss Chinese airlines. Lufthansa Technik will sector. It also plans to expand the added. Mr. Baylis said the shift from voice also supply material and provide number of esports teams from three to contact centres to digital channels was material handling services for the 10, with six of them to be based in South being driven by customers as a way to installation of packages that can be Korea. They will compete in seven engage and purchase products or tailored to the specific requirements of games, including "League of Legends," services in a way that suits them. airline customers of ARE. "Fortnite," "PlayerUnknown's “We are thrilled customers will have an Lufthansa Technik's portfolio covers the Battlegrounds" and "Hearthstone." even more convenient way of connecting entire range of services for commercial According to investment banking giant with us by leaving a message with us so and VIP/special mission aircraft, Goldman Sachs, the global esports they can get back to their day while we engines, components and landing gear industry is expected to grow US$869 resolve their issue in the background and in the areas of digital fleet support, million in 2018 to $2.9 billion in 2022. notify them when it's done.” Optus' maintenance, repair, overhaul, commitment to leading the way in m o d i f i c a t i o n , c o m p l e t i o n a n d Optus Messaging conversational care delivers to our conversion as well as the manufacture customers simple, interactive and of innovative cabin products. removes major pain convenient support via their preferred Collaborating with its partners, AirNet points for customers channels, 24/7. offers Chinese airlines internet connections through a network of ZTE and China Telecom satellites and land-based beacons. Optus has introduced a digital Messaging service for customers that allows them to help Bluetron adopt Azercosmos, interact with Optus, not have to repeat their enquiry history, and then go about China's first end-to-end CaspianSAT sign their lives while Optus solves their 5G slicing and problem and then provides the customer partnership agreement with an update when their problem is intelligent solved. Optus Messaging is the latest manufacturing solution Azercosmos and CaspianSAT, the 'always-on' help and support channel and company that offers offshore is available through My Optus App and telecommunication services, signed a online via My Account. ZTE Corporation, a major international partnership agreement. According to Optus Messaging provides a 24/7 direct provider of telecommunications, the agreement, CaspianSAT will line of communication with Optus care enterprise and consumer technology provide telecommunications services to teams where customers can 'come and go' solutions for Mobile Internet, together the vessels operating in the Caspian from a conversation at their own pace and with the Zhejiang Branch of China Sea, the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, convenience. Unique to Messaging, this Telecom, assisted Bluetron in the Persian Gulf, the Volga river, and service facilitates a conversational-style commissioning China's first 5G SA Eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, approach between Optus customers and (Standalone) site, which put 5G slicing, using the resources of Azerspace-1 and care support teams by drawing on the edge computing and smart Azerspace-2 satellites. latest technologies to blend digital and manufacturing into trial to help Bluetron S o l u t i o n s c o v e r i n g b a s i c human experiences. build a new 5G smart factory.To meet telecommunications requirements such Optus Vice President of Customer Care, data requirements of industrial as internet, telephony and TV Mark Baylis, said “Messaging is breaking production, the Zhejiang Branch of China broadcasting and other additional new ground in the world of customer care Telecom, ZTE and Bluetron have services on vessels are offered by and will transform the way we developed an integrated solution of 5G CaspianSAT over Azerspace-1 and communicate with our customers and slicing, edge computing, and intelligent Azerspace-2 since October 2019. most importantly, help us go further to manufacturing. deliver exceptional service.” This solution realizes rapid deployment of machine vision slicing and fast backhaul SK Telecom's esports “Over the past few years, we noticed of video streams by adopting key J V w i t h C o m c a s t customers have really taken to the technologies such as, slicing stores, convenience of our Live Chat service and wireless slicing perception, end-to-end Spectator sets sail we've able to build on this digital slicing security isolation, dynamic slice SK Telecom Co., South Korea's leading e x p e r i e n c e b y i n t r o d u c i n g migration, UPF moving to edge, and UPF mobile carrier, said that its esports joint Messaging.”“Unlike Live Chat, Messaging offloading. These slices can reduce the
32 IN THE NEWS ASIA
latency, jitter, and packet loss rate of video of local television channels through the report said. "Investors remain bullish about data transmission, guarantee the country's first satellite Bangabandhu Southeast Asia despite the global bandwidth and quality of video Satellite-1. The PM handed over the economic headwinds, with over $37 billion transmission and improve the accuracy transmission rights to the TV station of capital poured into the region's Internet and real-time performance of video owners in a program at Pan Pacific economy over the past four years," it analysis results. Sonargaon hotel in the capital. added. This solution is applicable to wireless data Information Minister Hasan Mahmud, With over 36 crore people across the collection and operation monitoring Post and Telecommunication Minister region having online access, users have scenarios, allowing operators to avoid on- Mustafa Jabbar, telecom Secretary become used to performing day-to-day site processes in harsh environments, Ashok Kumar Biswas, Bangladesh tasks such as shopping, booking a cab or thereby reducing the labor intensity and Communication Satellite Company Ltd making e-payments through the Internet. security risks of operators. Industrial Chairman Shahjan Mahmood and Though more than half of Southeast Asia's cameras and edge computing gateways Association of Television Channel Internet economy remains concentrated in are deployed on the production line to Owners (ATCO) President Anjan just seven sprawling metropolitan areas replace monitoring instruments. Chowdhury were present on the (Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, occasion. The government has offered a Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila and The industrial cameras take a video of the discounted rate for the local TV stations Singapore), activity in other areas is feed inlet and upload the stream to the so that they feel encouraged to use the witnessing rapid growth, said the report. MEC through the uplink 5G slice. After country's own satellite. According to the report, 11 e-commerce calculating and analyzing the images, the The Bangladesh Communication and ride-hailing unicorns - such as regional MEC will automatically notify the classifier Satellite Company sources have said that giants Grab, Lazada or GoJek - attracted and raises an alarm in case of any for the next one year the company is two out of every three dollars raised since abnormal image. The solution can also be offering Tk1.57 lakh per MHz spectrum 2016. In addition, $5 billion have been used in enterprise full-service data per month, down from its original offer of invested in more than 70 so-called integration scenarios, such as visual Tk1.95 lakh. Earlier, most of the TV "aspiring unicorns" - tech startups valued analysis of the bearer flow, device data channels were taking the service from at between $100 million and $1 billion - that c o l l e c t i o n , p e r s o n n e l s e c u r i t y Hong Kong-based Star Alliance to which are "on the lookout for late-stage funding to management and remote device they used to pay around Tk3.50 lakh to scale further". maintenance. "Committed to continuous Tk4 lakh. technological innovation, ZTE works with According to insiders, Star Alliance is now operators and industry partners to explore also offering discounted rate to the Bangladeshi internet the cooperation mode of the edge cloud Bangladeshi TV channels in a bid to stay users hit 98 million and build an edge ecosystem together to in competition with the BCSCL. Launched comprehensively promote the commercial in may 2018, the total expenditure of the use of the MEC edge cloud and jointly Bangabandhu Satellite 1 was Tk2,000 With addition of nearly 7 million new users promote the flourishing of 5G edge crore and as per the project proposal, the in the first eight months of this year, the services," said Chen Xinyu, General cost will be recovered in eight years. On total number of Bangladeshi Internet users Manager of ZTE Telecom Cloud & Core October 21, 2015, the Cabinet Purchase reached over 98 million at the end of Network Product Line. Committee approved the project to buy August, based on the statistics of the ZTE is a provider of advanced the satellite system. c o u n t r y ' s t e l e c o m r e g u l a t o r . telecommunications systems, mobile Later, BTRC signed a deal involving Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n R e g u l a t o r y devices and enterprise technology Tk2,000 crore with French company Commission (BTRC) data showed that the solutions to consumers, carriers, Thales Alenia Space for the construction number of subscribers in the country companies and public sector customers. of Bangladesh's first-ever satellite reached 98.136 million. As part of ZTE's strategy, the company is Bangabandhu-1. The satellite was Of the total subscribers, the BTRC data committed to providing customers with launched into the orbital slot at 119.1 showed that there were 92.361 million integrated end-to-end innovations to degree east longitude. The slot was mobile Internet and 5.735 million deliver excellence and value as the bought from Russian satellite company broadband Internet users in the country telecommunications and information “Intersputnik” for $28 million in January while the rest of the connections are technology sectors converge. Listed in the 2015. t h r o u g h W i M A X ( W o r l d w i d e stock exchanges of Hong Kong and Interoperability for Microwave Access). Shenzhen, ZTE sells its products and The country's cellphone companies in the services in more than 160 countries. Southeast Asia's first eight months of this year saw nearly ZTE has so far obtained 25 commercial internet economy to hit 5.59 million new users to take the total 5G contracts in major 5G markets such as subscribers base to 162.583 million at the Europe, Asia Pacific and MEA (Middle US$100 billion end of last month. Bangladesh has East and Africa). ZTE commits 10 per cent currently four mobile companies, three of which are foreign-backed cellphone of its annual revenue to research and Southeast Asia's Internet economy is development and has leadership roles in operators. estimated to hit $100 billion in 2019, a 39- The number of subscribers of the mobile i n t e r n a t i o n a l s t a n d a r d - s e t t i n g per cent increase compared to 2018, organizations. operators, Grameenphone, RobiAxiata, according to an industry forecast. The Banglalink and Teletalk stood at 75.619 annual "e-Conomy SEA" report million, 47.760 million, 34.817 million and Commercial TV presented by the Singapore-based 4.387 million respectively at the end of investment firm Temasek also projected August, BTRC data showed. transmission that the region's digital economy could inaugurated through reach up to $300 billion by 2025, Efe news reported. Vietnam to get Japan's Bangabandhu Satellite-1 "The region has tremendous potential for further growth thanks to fundamental first exported Earth consumer behaviour changes, growing The Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has observation satellite as Internet connectivity and more," the inaugurated the commercial transmission part of disaster 33 IN THE NEWS ASIA prevention initiative using carrier aggregation, combining also help boost digitisation and 100MHz of 3.5GHz spectrum with A Japan-developed weather satellite will automation in every sector.” 145MHz of 4G bands. There are also be exported to Vietnam under a Japanese A committee formed by BTRC is already plan to commercialise 800MHz of public-private initiative, according to latest working to make a guideline on 5G which mmWave spectrum in 2020. reports. Representatives of Japan and the will be available from the first quarter of “We are the number one operator in Vietnamese government are in the final next year, the minister added. BTRC Korea. 5G is not coming to Korea its stages of talks on the matter, according to Chairman Md Jahurul Haque also spoke already in Korea. Going forward we are sources. The ¥20 billion initiative is aimed during the programme. testing and preparing standalone and at supporting disaster prevention efforts in mmWave for commercialisation next the emerging economy, as an increasing year to further improve our network.” Discovery selects number of extreme climate events are occurring around the globe. Synamedia's virtualized Under the initiative, general trader Satellite center starts DCM to support its Asia Sumitomo Corp. will shortly take an order for the satellite from the Vietnamese running in east China Pacific migration to government. The satellite will be produced cloud encoding by NEC Corp. The production cost will be mostly covered with low-interest yen loans A satellite research and development from the Japan International Cooperation center has started operation on its north Synamedia announced that Discovery, Agency. This is believed to be the first section in east China's Shanghai, Inc. has chosen its virtualized Digital export of a Japanese Earth observation according to China Science Daily. The Content Manager (DCM) from its video satellite, the sources said. The small L i n g a n g S a t e l l i t e C e n t e r w a s network portfolio to increase operational satellite to be exported to Vietnam was constructed by the Innovation Academy efficiencies for its Asia Pacific developed with support from the industry for Microsatellites of the Chinese distribution. ministry. It is based on NEC's Asnaro 2 test Academy of Sciences which participated A long-time Synamedia PowerVu satellite launched in January 2018. in the development of the Dark Matter customer, Discovery is centralizing its The new satellite, weighing about 500 Particle Explorer, nicknamed Wukong or Asia Pacific uplink compression systems kilograms, can be launched using Japan's Monkey King, and the quantum science to its Sterling ,Virginia broadcast center. Epsilon solid-fuel rocket. Vietnam is satellite Mozi. The company is turning to Synamedia's poised to introduce a satellite to monitor its virtualized DCM to distribute signals climate and environment in the wake of The north section of the center will across regions without interruptions. The recent rain disasters. The Southeast Asian undertake the manufacturing of platform, which complements traditional country plans to operate one satellite communication, navigation and remote satellite distribution, enables Discovery initially, and is considering the introduction sensing equipment. to efficiently transition its distribution of a second if necessary. Its satellite assembly plant with seven architecture to an IP-based virtualized halls occupying 36,000 square meters video processing environment while SK Telecom targets 2.5 will be able to cope with the development protecting its revenue. of more than 100 micro/nano-satellites. million 5G connections The construction of the center's south Synamedia's virtualized DCM offers by year-end section started at the same time on Oct. exceptional video services for linear pay 12 and is scheduled to be finished by TV broadcast and live OTT streaming, 2021. It will support the volume including live transcoding to multiple bit SK Telecom outlined ambitious targets production of more than 600 commercial rates and formats, scalable video around its 5G user base, aiming to micro/nano-satellites in the next 10 functions, best-in-class video quality, and capitalise on strong growth since it years. an intuitive user interface. Discovery has launched commercial service in April. employed Synamedia's PowerVu Jong-Kwan Park, SVP and head of 5GX Network Center to securely distribute its Labs (pictured), told delegates the South 5G internet service by live linear international channels from Korean operator had signed up 1.5 million 2021 hardware to a virtualized environment in 5G subscribers by early September, half of the U.S. to feed the Asia Pacific region distribution. Synamedia's virtualized the country's total customer count at that Bangladesh Telecommunication point. It aims to lift the number to 2.5 million DCM adaptability and distribution Regulatory Commission (BTRC) capabilities allow Discovery to continue by the year-end, he said. officially disclosed its primary decision of Park said sign-up rates have been two- delivering the quality content its making 5G internet service available in dedicated audience has come to rely on. times faster than when 4G launched, citing the country by 2021. BTRC gave attractive tariffs as a key factor. The licenses to the mobile operators with a operator initially discounted the cost of 5G “We are excited to move to Synamedia's condition that they will have to bring all next gen virtualized DCM architecture for by 50 per cent to encourage users to the district headquarters under 5G switch. our Asia Pacific distribution," said Jim service by 2023 while the entire country Rossiter, Vice President of Distribution, Despite the discounts, Park said 5G ARPU by 2026. was already double that of 5G, though he Americas and Asia, for Discovery. The commission revealed the "Uninterrupted service is non-negotiable did not give precise figures. information during a programme titled The operator is now working to break for us as we strive to provide the best “Seminar on 5G in Bangladesh” held at viewing experiences for our audience. through the current maximum download Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh speed of 2.7Gb/s in 2020. We needed a partner we could trust that (IEB) at Dhaka's Ramna. Posts and can help us transition without impacting Park illustrated the need for such speeds Telecommunication Minister Mustafa with a popular feature called multi-view service delivery, and to continue to Jabbar, who was present at the deliver high quality content to our clients." streaming, which allows users to watch programme, said 5G and fourth industrial multiple live broadcasts of gaming "Discovery is a true innovator and leader revolution are interrelated. “5G is not in entertainment today. Their trust in our contests on their smartphones. only related with telecom services, it will SK Telecom will achieve the speed bump technology to securely deliver their
34 IN THE NEWS ASIA
variety of networks, is reflective of the constellations, achieve their mission and Rocket Lab innovation we are bringing to market and business goals.” the focus we place on serving industry The company's last mission aboard this successfully launches leaders like Discovery," said Dave launch vehicle was PSLV C45, which Longaker, Senior Vice President and deployed 21 rideshare spacecraft earlier ninth Electron mission, G e n e r a l M a n a g e r, A m e r i c a s , this year. Spaceflight has completed five deploys payload to Synamedia. "The virtualized DCM is a missions already this year, with another key component of our video network five planned in 2019. Other noteworthy highest orbit yet portfolio, and our partners and customers 2019 missions include Spaceflight's around the globe are taking advantage of GTO-1, which deployed the first Rocket Lab has successfully launched its this solution to transition their businesses commercial lunar lander aboard a ninth Electron mission, deploying a single as they implement cloud and hybrid SpaceX Falcon 9, and two rideshare spacecraft to orbit for satellite architectures that are flexible and future- missions with Rocket Lab, which sent manufacturer Astro Digital. The mission, proof.” nine spacecraft to orbit. In December named 'As The Crow Flies,' lifted off from 2018, SSO-A, the company's historic Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 on New Spaceflight announces d e d i c a t e d r i d e s h a r e m i s s i o n , Zealand's Mâhia Peninsula on 17 successfully launched 64 unique October 2019 . Approximately 71 minutes next three Rideshare smallsats, making it the single largest after lift-off, Electron's Kick Stage deployment of satellites from a U.S.- deployed the payload to a circular orbit of Missions on ISRO's based launch vehicle. more than 1,000 km - more than twice the PSLV Spaceflight also recently announced its altitude of any Electron mission to date. purchase of the first commercial launch The mission successfully demonstrated Spaceflight announced it will launch 14 of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle recent upgrades to the Kick Stage's 3D- more spacecraft from India's Polar (SSLV) from NewSpace India Limited printed Curie engine, including the move Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) this year. (NSIL), scheduled for early 2020. to a bi-propellant design for improved Payloads will launch on PSLV's C47, C48 performance. Curie also serves as the and C49 missions, scheduled to launch in Vietnam requests propulsion system on Rocket Lab's November and December 2019 from Photon satellite bus, and the flight-proven India's Satish Dhawan Space Center. Japan's Earth engine upgrades support enduring missions in LEO, as well as higher orbits. Customers aboard the missions include observation satellite as Analytical Space, Spire, iQPS and Kleos Space. part of disaster This mission takes the total number of Analytical Space Inc.'s (ASI) second satellites deployed by Rocket Lab to 40 technical demonstration spacecraft, prevention initiative and continues the company's track record dubbed Meshbed, will be launching on of 100% mission success for customers. PSLV C47 in November. ASI's mission is A Japan-developed weather satellite will The spacecraft on board was a Palisade an on-orbit demonstration intended to be exported to Vietnam under a technology demonstration satellite - a test technology that will enable users on Japanese public-private initiative, 16U CubeSat with on-board propulsion Earth to gain faster access to satellite according to report by Japan Times. and next generation communications data. The spacecraft features a patented Representatives of Japan and the systems developed by Astro Digital, and antenna from MITRE that could help Vietnamese government are in the final software developed by Advanced enable faster access to space-based stages of talks on the matter, according Solutions Inc. including an advanced data, as well as government missions to sources. The ¥20 billion initiative is version of ASI's MAX Flight Software. including tactical communications and aimed at supporting disaster prevention i n t e l l i g e n c e , s u r v e i l l a n c e a n d efforts in the emerging economy, as an The mission earned its moniker, 'As The reconnaissance. increasing number of extreme climate Crow Flies,' as a nod to Astro Digital's PSLV C48, slated for early December, events are occurring around the globe. Corvus Spacecraft Platform which w i l l c a r r y J a p a n ' s i Q P S S A R Under the initiative, general trader provides flexible and cost-effective microsatellite and four multi-payload Sumitomo Corp. will shortly take an order solutions across a wide range of Earth observation nanosatellites that add for the satellite from the Vietnamese applications and mission profiles on bus to Spire Global's constellation of government. The satellite will be variants ranging from 6U and 16U maritime, aviation and weather produced by NEC Corp. CubeSats to ESPA Class. Corvus is also a monitoring satellites. PSLV C49, also widely distributed genus of birds that scheduled in December, will take The production cost will be mostly includes crows. 'As The Crow Flies' was Luxembourg-based Kleos' Scouting covered with low-interest yen loans from pulled forward in Rocket Lab's 2019 Mission satellites, the foundational the Japan International Cooperation manifest after a customer originally slated system in the company's radio frequency Agency. This is believed to be the first for this window requested a later launch monitoring constellation, and additional export of a Japanese Earth observation date. Spire nanosats to orbit. satellite, the sources said. The small “Congratulations to the Astro Digital team “PSLV continues to be a reliable launch satellite to be exported to Vietnam was for readying the spacecraft and taking partner for us, enabling Spaceflight to developed with support from the industry advantage of an earlier launch launch a variety of customers,” said Curt ministry. It is based on NEC's Asnaro 2 opportunity. Our teams worked closely to Blake, CEO and president of Spaceflight. test satellite launched in January 2018. deliver a flawless mission in a “By the end of 2019, we will have The new satellite, weighing about 500 demonstration of the truly responsive executed 11 launches on PSLVs and sent kilograms, can be launched using space launch that small satellites need,” more than 100 satellites to orbit on this Japan's Epsilon solid-fuel rocket. said Rocket Lab Founder and Chief vehicle. The consistency of the PSLV has Vietnam is poised to introduce a satellite Executive, Peter Beck. “No longer do played a critical role is assisting our to monitor its climate and environment in small satellite operators have to accept customers, especially those launching the wake of recent rain disasters. The the limitations of flying as a secondary IN THE NEWS ASIA
payload, nor do they have to wait endlessly available through Fleet Xpress, on the manifest of unproven launch according to Capt. Tao Yong, Vice AVIA hosts the Asia vehicles. Frequent, responsive, and reliable President Fleet, Pacific Gas Video Summit in launch is the new norm for small satellites “Fleet Xpress helps us to scale our thanks to Electron.” digital activities and complement the Singapore ship management software that we installed for resource planning on The Asia Video Industry Association Satellite center now vessels,” said Capt. Tao Yong. “With (AVIA) will host its second Asia Video operational in east China real-time data exchange, vessels are Summit this year from 4 - 6 November now an extension to our shore office at the Ritz Carlton, Millenia, Singapore. A satellite research and development and we base our operational efficiency With over 100 speakers representing center started operation on its north section and performance gains on continuous 80 companies across the Asia Pacific on Oct. 12 in east China's Shanghai, monitoring and real-time upgrades and region, the Asia Video Summit brings to according to China Science Daily. The assistance. Internet access at sea is its delegates a riveting line-up of Lingang Satellite Center was constructed also vital for crew welfare and essential sessions covering the themes of b y t h e I n n o v a t i o n A c a d e m y f o r to attracting and retaining talented Business Models, Advertising, News, Microsatellites of the Chinese Academy of crew Human Capital and Policy Sciences which participated in the Capt. Tao Yong adds that always-on development of the Dark Matter Particle connectivity and shipping's progress With video delivery migrating on-line, Explorer, nicknamed Wukong or Monkey towards digitalisation creates new monetisation becomes entirely King, and the quantum science satellite requirements to protect ships against different to traditional Pay TV, and the Mozi. cybercriminals. Stable connections right Business Model remains the The north section of the center will are vital for a company continuously central question for the industry. And as u n d e r t a k e t h e m a n u f a c t u r i n g o f monitoring its ships remotely using the industry continues to witness major communication, navigation and remote CCTV for security, for example. consolidation, what is not often sensing equipment. Its satellite assembly discussed is the impact it has on the plant with seven halls occupying 36,000 “With our growing dependence on Human Capital that makes up this square meters will be able to cope with the technology and providing open workforce. Also, with social media and development of more than 100 micro/nano- internet access we could be YouTube cornering the Advertising satellites. The construction of the center's susceptible to cyberattacks, so we market, how does the industry curate south section started at the same time on needed more than a conventional anti- premium content services that attract Oct. 12 and is scheduled to be finished by virus to protect our systems 24/7 and the appropriate share of advertising for 2021. It will support the volume production from the various kinds of evolving the time people spend consuming it? of more than 600 commercial micro/nano- threats,” continued Capt. Tao Yong. satellites in the next 10 years. “As a modern ship owner we ensure But of all the content services, News is that all our vessels are equipped with the one that is at the forefront of the state-of-the-art technology and most active debates in 2019. With more Pacific Gas chooses security systems that complement people relying on social media for Inmarsat's Fleet Xpress Inmarsat's global, secure and reliable News, the role of curated news services connectivity. is more important than ever before to connectivity, protected counter the fake news epidemic. And as by Fleet Secure Endpoint Fleet Secure Endpoint monitors ship curated video continues to migrate to systems for security breaches internet delivery services, and online introduced at 'endpoints', either by piracy remains one of the biggest The largest Liquid Ethylene Gas (LEG) ship malicious software or by a new crew threats to the video industry, owner in China has agreed a commitment to device with no security installed, governments are now waking up to the install Fleet Xpress connectivity from reporting a 'rogue node' and isolating reality that the internet is a place that Inmarsat, the world leader in global, mobile them from the rest of the network until needs law and order. Do we have the satellite communications on all its vessels. issue resolution. Powered by ESET right Policies in place for the curated This will also include Inmarsat's Fleet Endpoint Security – recognised for its video industry today? Louis Boswell, Secure Endpoint, the new line of defence in high performance by industry authority CEO, AVIA commented, "I am looking the multi-layered strategy to thwart cyber Gartner Inc. - Fleet Secure's advanced forward to this year's event. This is the threats monitoring stands out from the one time of the year where we ask our Pacific Gas has committed to the new Fleet competition by offering the user a stakeholders to come together to Secure Endpoint solution within the terms of greater sense of control and discuss the key issues we face as an its agreement to install Fleet Xpress across awareness over their environment. industry. In a non-partisan and honest all their operational ships by the end of this environment, with more to discuss than year as well as on its future vessels. “Pacific Gas is one of the growing ever before, the Asia Video Summit is The Hong Kong-headquartered group has number of quality operators adopting critical as we plot the future trajectory of the capacity to carry 3 million tons of cargo practical and pragmatic mitigation our industry. annually and has signalled intentions of an strategies that prioritise cybersecurity expansion beyond its existing focus on very on shore and at sea,” says Peter Maxar Technologies, large gas carriers and liquefied ethylene Broadhurst, Senior Vice President of gas carriers into Liquified Natural Gas Safety and Security, Inmarsat. “These Australian Space (LNG) carriers and Very Large Ethane companies recognise that the risks of a Agency sign carriers (VLECs) cyberattack on a vessel extend beyond The ambitions of Pacific Gas have driven loss of reputation; they include the risk cooperative agreement evolving connectivity needs, demanding of delays to the ship and cargo delivery Maxar Technologies has signed a joint the bandwidth, seamless global coverage, or increased insurance premiums.” statement of strategic intent and guaranteed performance and 24/7 support cooperation with the Australian Space IN THE NEWS ASIA
Agency. Under the statement, Maxar and equipment to transmit and distribute The package, which integrates satellite Australian Space Agency will investigate data to and from the satellite. An communications with HHI's existing collaboration in areas of mutual strategic additional diversity site, over 60 smart ship solution, was launched at an interest related to Earth intelligence and kilometres away, will ensure better event entitled 'HGS & Intellian Satellite space infrastructure capabilities, and availability and a redundancy capability. Package Launching Show' at Nurimaru space-related Australian education and Petro1 will provide a high-grade, well- APEC House in Busan, Korea on training initiatives. These projects may f i b e r e d s e c u r e d d a t a c e n t e r October 22 – the first day of Kormarine. include development of next-generation environment for the system servers, In attendance were invited ship owners space robotics, ground stations focused 24/7 service care, which includes onsite and executives of HHI and major on optimized servicing of large satellite service staff 24/7. shipping companies. c o n s t e l l a t i o n s , o p t i c a l a n d communications satellites, space-based The satellite's high-power beams cover This world-first service is a combination maritime surveillance and artificial Indonesia's many islands and of HHI's 'Integrated Smart Ship (ISS)' intelligence and machine learning surrounding ocean, delivering solution – a digital ecosystem for vessel technologies that extract insights from affordable, high-speed broadband to and fleet management which Earth observation data at scale. telecommunications companies, incorporates a powerful data analysis internet service providers and platform – and Intellian's satellite “Maxar is honored to support the governments. This contract with local communications antenna systems. Australian Space Agency as it seeks to partners represents a multi-million HGS selected Intellian as partner due expand the nation's role in the international dollar infrastructure investment into to its broad range of innovative, resilient civil space community, and we look Indonesia by satellite operator Kacific. antennas, and its flexibility to operate forward to contributing technology and “Kacific chose to locate its ground with global service providers to provide expertise from our 65-year heritage in infrastructure in Indonesia because it is comprehensive service to customers. space to projects and programs that a priority market for us,” says Kacific The new package will provide HGS with enable them to achieve this goal,” said Dan CEO, Christian Patouraux. “Our high- a standardized smart ship package to Jablonsky, Maxar CEO. speed broadband will supplement and supply for newly-built HHI ships, while augment the Government connectivity Intellian will secure new customers. “The Australian Space Agency aims to programmes which aim to strengthen Moreover, as it offers internet provision triple the size of the Australian space broadband infrastructure across the right from the sea trial, customers are industry to $12 billion and create 20,000 nation. Petro1 has a highly trained freed from the inconvenience of fitting new jobs by 2030,” said Anthony Murfett, technical team and access to excellent network services to the vessel. HGS Deputy Head of the Australian Space facilities, which will ensure the optimal will also provide customer support for Agency. “Signings with companies such as performance of the Kacific1 satellite in any smart ship solution issues, Maxar will continue to develop the local Indonesia.” guaranteeing faster response times space economy, and benefit Australians and trustworthy service. through space technologies. Cooperation Petro1 CEO Marlina Sagaf says, “We across government, private industry and are very pleased to have won the trust Kwang Heon An, CEO of Hyundai r e s e a r c h b o t h n a t i o n a l l y a n d and business of Kacific for this long- Global Service, said: “This new product internationally will provide linkages for term teleport hosting, support and the launch has great implications for us as Australia to access a greater segment of maintenance component of this a disruptive venture which could bring the global space economy.” remarkable high-speed satellite. Petro1 about big changes to the smart ship The operations of DigitalGlobe, SSL and and Kacific will bring to the Indonesian paradigm. Through close partnership Radiant Solutions were unified under the people a great internet usage enabler to with Intellian, we will strengthen our Maxar brand in February; MDA continues the entire Indonesian archipelago, competitiveness to offer customer to operate as an independent business especially for people and businesses in value and take a step forward as a unit within the Maxar organization. rural or remote locations. Together with global leader in the market.” Kacific, our Petro1 team intends to Eric Sung, CEO of Intellian, added: Kacific secures provide a robust and reliable high speed “This product is the world's first VSAT service from our earth station comprehensive package for smart infrastructure location locations in Surabaya and Pasuruan.” ships, and can be realized only through the global No.1 shipbuilding group. It is with Petro1 for its the first step to leading the smart ship broadband services to market. We will deliver a totally new Intellian satcom pairs value to market end-users through our Indonesia and the wider with Hyundai Global innovative technology.” region Service's smart ship China's private Kacific Broadband Satellites Group solution (Kacific) has selected PT. Petro One reusable rocket to be Indonesia (Petro1) to provide ground Intellian has launched a satcom launched in 2021 infrastructure services in Indonesia for its package for smart ships with marine brand-new satellite, built by Boeing, which engineering and service provider A Chinese reusable carrier rocket that will launch at the end of 2019. Petro1 will Hyundai Global Service (HGS), a u s e s l i q u i d o x y g e n - m e t h a n e host, operate and provide first level subsidiary of the world's No.1 propellants made its first public support for Kacific's gateway hub at its shipbuilding company Hyundai Heavy appearance Friday at the ongoing 2019 secure facilities in Surabaya and Industries (HHI) group. This is the first Zhongguancun Forum in Beijing. The Pasuruan, East Java, Indonesia. The joint project to come from the rocket named the Hyperbola-2, will be state-of-the-art primary gateway will companies' signing of a Memorandum launched for the first time in 2021. It include a 9-metre antenna and associated of Understanding (MoU) in July. may make up for China's lack of IN THE NEWS ASIA
reusable liquid-propellant rockets. customers—freeing engineering time using satellite data and unmanned The Hyperbola-2 was developed by a and capital from having to develop a aircraft technology. Beijing-based private rocket developer i- spacecraft platform, secure a launch, and Space. Its primary stage can be reused, coordinate access to ground stations Daniel Wallace, Seequent General reducing more than 70 percent of the from different providers. Manager for Civil and Environmental, rocket production cost, according to The partnership between Rocket Lab and said the company jumped at the Dong Yanmin, the company's vice KSAT provides Photon customers opportunity to participate in the president of technology. It will not only downlink and uplink capabilities in UHF, Challenge to apply their innovative meet the growing demand for small and S-band, X-band, and Ka-band across a technology above ground in an exciting medium-sized satellite launches but also global ground station network of over 200 new space with huge potential to provide emergency and ride-share antennas that supports 50,000 contacts positively impact sustainability. launches, Dong said. per month. “Water quality and the health of our The 28-meter-long rocket, with a takeoff Rocket Lab Chief Executive and lakes sustains our way of life. It's not weight of 90 tonnes, has a lift capability of Founder, Peter Beck, says, “Rocket Lab's economical to visit all lakes to monitor sending 1.9 tonnes of payload to low- partnership with KSAT will play an adverse environmental impacts, but Earth orbit. The rocket is low-cost and important role in continuing to streamline with satellite remote sensing every lake reliable, which can provide high-quality the path to orbit for small satellite can be monitored virtually. Algal satellite launches, Dong sai. operators. We solved the launch blooms, sediment events and other challenge when Rocket Lab began adverse changes in lake health, which Rocket Lab partners regular and reliable launch services in could otherwise be unseen and January 2018. Now we're simplifying the unknown suddenly emerge with our with Kongsberg spacecraft side of the equation with the new monitoring solution. Subsequently Satellite Services for combination of Photon and KSAT's these lakes could be visited to further ground network support.” investigate the health degradation.” Electron and Photon Seequent's multi-disciplinary team, ground station support which included collaborators from Satellite-based lake Lincoln Agritech and the Waterways Centre for Freshwater Management, Rocket Lab has partnered with health monitoring also received support from Environment Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT), to system an aerospace Canterbury and the University of be the sole provider of ground station Waikato. The team received a cash services for the Electron launch vehicle winner prize of $30,000, over $15,000 of Airbus and Photon satellite bus customers. The data vouchers, $2,500 of legal support agreement sees Rocket Lab deliver a Seequent wins New Zealand aerospace and an offer of commercialisation complete solution for small satellite innovation challenge; continues to support from Xstart, a tech focused operators, including satellite design and expand its geoscience solutions to help incubator based at the University of build, launch, and ground segment solve earth, environment and energy C a n t e r b u r y ' s C e n t r e f o r support leveraging an existing global challenges. Seequent is developing a Entrepreneurship. network of ground stations. satellite-based remote sensing solution that could virtually monitor the water Gilat, China Satcom Rocket Lab's Electron launch vehicle is quality of every lake globally. Seequent's currently the only commercial, dedicated Lake Indicator Modelling System lay foundation for small satellite launch vehicle operating a (SLIMS) can capture water quality data future chinese satellite regular service to orbit, making space across many hundreds of lakes at once more accessible for small satellites. With and model and visualise it through time, communication for a proven launch vehicle in operation to help freshwater scientists identify lake Aero, Maritime, Land since January 2018, the next evolution of health changes as they occur. Rocket Lab's mission services is the mobility & fixed Photon satellite bus. Designed for Seequent was awarded the grand prize applications seamless pairing with Electron, the at the New Zealand Aerospace Photon satellite bus streamlines the Challenge 2019 on Friday after entire end-to-end satellite experience for demonstrating how its globally scalable Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd, a customers from design to build to launch. SLIMS solution could effectively and worldwide leader in satellite networking Likewise, KSAT's KSATlite ground economically monitor the health of all technology, solutions and services and network is designed and optimized for New Zealand's 3,820 lakes. With China Satellite Communications Co., small satellite systems, providing currently only 2% of lakes currently Ltd. (China Satcom), today announced s t r e a m l i n e d a c c e s s ( t h r o u g h monitored via established methods of the strengthening of the already standardized API driven interfaces) and lake water sampling and analysis, SLIMS established strategic partnership to scalable support that grows to meet enables organisations to monitor jointly provide advanced satellite mission needs. changes in lake conditions with the ability communication services covering: to use historical satellite data to identify Aero, Land and Maritime fixed and The closely integrated partnership with seasonal trends. This allows users to mobility applications. Gilat and China KSAT now provides launch to operations identify lakes exhibiting any unexpected Satcom will work in partnership to ground segment support for Photon change for closer monitoring and enable and deploy Gilat's DVB-S2X customers – the final piece for small management. The Challenge, powered technologies throughout China while satellite operators seeking an end-to-end by global aerospace giant Airbus, and supporting all business verticals. mission partner. This enables small delivered by ChristchurchNZ and satellite operators to focus on what really SpaceBase, sought solutions to identify, China Satcom is a licensed matters—their applications and their monitor or measure water or soil pollution telecommunications service provider in IN THE NEWS ASIA
China which also owns and operates the original content specifically for Korean amending the Copyright Act to update most capable and extensive Ka-band spot audiences. its copyright regime in an effort to beam satellite system in China, the only Ka- support creators and users of video band system currently available for IFC "I believe we are uniquely positioned to content. A critical part of the suite of service in the country.“The agreement with produce original, high quality content a m e n d m e n t s i n c l u d e s n e w China Satcom is a significant step towards that will engage, inspire and inform enforcement measures to further deter realizing the latest efficient and high- Korean and international audiences. retailers from profiting from providing performance satellite communication This content partnership will also shine access to content through unauthorised technology across China, well positioning a spotlight on the innovation coming sources such as ISDs that enable China Satcom to deliver excellent customer from the Korean creative industries and access to pirated TV channels and experience to the end user,” said Yuan Si, spark additional international curiosity video-on-demand content. China Country Manager for Gilat. “This and interest in Korean content”. A YouGov consumer survey project is one more milestone in our years- commissioned by AVIA's Coalition long partnership with China Satcom, and Against Piracy (CAP) earlier this year, our commitment to provide the innovation revealed that 20% of Singaporean needed to best position China Satcom to Singapore court jailed consumers use a TV box which can be provide Aero, Land and Maritime used to stream pirated television and connectivity in the region, as well as to and fine a retailer of video content. Of the consumers who create the foundation for future satellite illicit streaming purchased an ISD, more than a quarter expansion with China Satcom's next HTS (28%) asserted that they cancelled their and VHTS satellites.” devices subscriptions to a Singaporean-based online videoe In a landmark court case brought by the Korean Telecom joins Premier League, Singtel, StarHub and Elon Musk's satellite forces with Discovery to Fox Networks Group, a Singapore retail telco targets Australia outlet Synnex Trading and its Director promote Korean content Mr. JiaXiaofeng were found guilty of globally four criminal charges of copyright Entrepreneur Elon Musk's SpaceX has infringement and ordered to pay a started the regulatory process to obtain permission to operate its Starlink Korean Telecom Group's Skylifetv has SG$160,800 fine. Mr. JiaXiaofeng was also sentenced to a three months jail satellite broadband service in Australia. agreed a joint venture (JV) content The Australian Communications and partnership with Discovery to shine a global term and a SG$ 5,400 fine. Synnex Trading operated a retail outlet in Media Authority (ACMA) said the spotlight on Korean content and strengthen operator is one of three foreign its market competitiveness. The Geylang Road which sold illicit streaming devices (ISDs) preloaded companies seeking such permission. partnership will aim to create original, non- The other two - Canada's Kepler scripted Korean entertainment content both with applications which provided access to thousands of unauthorised Communications and US firm Swarm for Korean and International audiences. Technologies - have satellite networks The JV will launch by the end of the year TV channels and video-on-demand content including live sports. aimed at internet of things (IoT) with the aim that content will be broadcast applications. across SkylifeTV channels, Discovery' Today's conviction was the second successful prosecution in Singapore “These operators have approached the Korea channel and Discovery's global ACMA to commence the regulatory network. The deal will also be responsible against retailers of illicit streaming devices (ISDs). In April this year the approvals process to eventually obtain for the distribution of all content it creates space apparatus licences to operate in across every media and platforms. company director of “An-Nahl” pled guilty a similar copyright offence Australia,” ACMA said in a consultation resulting in the court handing down a paper.SpaceX is planning to provide Hyun-Mo KOO, president, KT Customer broadband services via an initial and Media said: “This JV establishment fine. Neil Gane, the General Manager of AVIA's Coalition Against Piracy constellation of 12,000 low earth orbit with Discovery is a major milestone for (LEO) satellites, though it recently filed Korea's local content industry and brings a ( C A P ) c o m m e n t e d : “ To d a y ' s sentencing provides both a deterrence in the US to launch up to 30,000 more wind of change in Korean entertainment satellites than first expected in order to programs' ecosystem for consumers. “We and clarity to ISD retailers in Sim Lim Square and elsewhere, that selling illicit power the global internet service. The are re-imagining various strategies to grow services could be live as soon as next our original IP market and relying on the streaming devices is illegal”. Gane added: “ISD retailers mislead 2020. The company had mooted plans whole group companies to try partnership to seek regulatory approval late last initiatives collectively and I believe this consumers when they claim that the content accessible through such TV year when it implored the ACMA not to partnership marks the signal flare for limit its potential coverage to only various collaborations opportunities with boxes is legal and that requisite subscription charges goes to rights- pockets of Australia. The ACMA noted Discovery ahead”. Simon Robinson, that any satellite operator wanting president Discovery Networks Asia Pacific holders. As such, consumers are wasting their money when purchasing permission first needed to pass a and chief financial officer Discovery “prerequisite” step of being added to the Networks International said: an ISD and an alleged 'annual subscription' especially when they find foreign space objects determination maintained by the authority. It is now “This partnership between our Asia Pacific their ISD can no longer access live sports matches or their favourite TV seeking to amend that determination business and Korea Telecom Group's and has invited comment from industry. SkylifeTV underscores Discovery's shows. ISDs can never provide quality programming and a service guarantee, “Inclusion of an entity in the foreign unrivaled expertise in creating high quality space objects determination does not real-life entertainment for local and global contrary to what consumers may be told by unscrupulous retailers.” confer a right on that entity to obtain a audiences and leverages a fantastic licence nor operate in frequency bands opportunity for our two companies to create Earlier this year the Singapore government announced that it will be identified in the space object class IN THE NEWS ASIA licence,” the ACMA noted. “Rather, it is a are close to appointing a consultant for choices to viewers necessary prerequisite that must be in the second satellite and the consultant place before a space apparatus licence w o u l d m a i n t a i n c o n t a c t w i t h across the Philippines can be issued.” Glavkosmos. Glavkosmos has invited senior officials from Bangladesh to visit Russia to oversee their satellite Millions of homes in the Philippines will be Russian company keen business. able to enjoy new international TV on building second \ channels thanks to CLUBTV, a new thematically-focused TV platform satellite for Bangladesh Saber Astronautics launched by Mediahouse.PH, a division of wins $2.1 m contract Magistan Media, a project management firm specialising in television operations Glavkosmos, a Russian state-owned with RAAF for space and advertising, on SES's satellite SES-9. satellite company, has thrown its hat in the ring for designing, building and launching domain awareness Starting with six channels, CLUBTV offers Bangladesh's second satellite, which the a wide variety of genres that will bring government plans to send into orbit by Australia's Department of Defence has additional choices and popular thematic 2023. Six senior aeronautical engineers awarded space engineering company topics that interest young Filipinos: GINX from Glavkosmos led by its deputy director Saber Astronautics a Defence Esports TV, HealthWellness, Pet & Pal, general VitalySafonov are now visiting Innovation Hub contract for an Luxe&Life, My Cinema Europe and Dhaka following request from the telecom intelligent data fusion network to Motorvision TV. The platform will allow the division to learn about Bangladesh's process a large number of space channels to address existing audiences of requirements for Bangabandhu-2. objects. The contract, valued at AUD pay-TV operators, including Cignal TV as Glavkosmos will then conduct a feasibility $2.1M will use new and existing sensor of December, bringing a new selection of study to give an idea of the perfect location networks to provide advanced insights content to subscribers at no additional of the orbital space and technological in space domain awareness and cost. Mediahouse.PH serves as the status, Telecom Minister Mustafa Jabbar democratise access to spacecraft aggregator and marketer of the TV told The Daily Star yesterday. location data. channels.
The feasibility study will also give an Projections show TV households in the estimate of the amount needed to launch With the number of space objects set to Philippines increasing to 20.7 million by Bangabandhu-2. The Glavkosmos team, triple over the next decade there are 2024 from 18.7 million in 2019. For TV which is being accompanied by Russian new businesses developing sensors to households, satellite Direct-to-Home Ambassador to Bangaldesh Alexander find objects in space, with telescopes (DTH) TV is the fastest-growing TV Ignatov, yesterday sat for its first meeting at and radars cropping up around the reception mode against terrestrial and J a b b a r ' s o f f i c e . B a n g l a d e s h globe. “We even found hobby cable TV in the Philippines, with the Communication Satellite Company astronomy groups getting in on the number of satellite TV households (BCSCL) Chairman Shahjahan Mahmood, action,” says Saber Astronautics CEO estimated to be 3.7 million by year end and Telecom Secretary Ashoke Kumar Biswas Dr Jason Held. “New satellite forecast to increase to 5.8 million in 2024. and Bangladesh Telecommunication companies in the USA and Canada SES will provide both satellite capacity via Regulatory Commission Chairman often call Australian astronomers, SES-9, located at the prime orbital location MdJahurulHaque were also present at the stressed because they couldn't find of 108.2 degrees East, and managed meeting. their satellite and needed help.” media services such as ad insertion, encoding, monitoring and multiplexing. “Actually, their meeting with me was an ice- Sensors vary widely in size and SES has established a strong presence in breaking session. They have briefed us capability and come from both Asia Pacific via its premium video about the different kinds of satellites and commercial and government sources. neighbourhood at 108.2 degrees East, we just told them we now have at least Saber Astronautics will use its decade which currently broadcasts channels to some experience about satellites and we of heritage with machine learning and over 17 million TV homes across the want the second one to have an orbital data fusion algorithms to merge these Philippines and Indonesia. position near our country,” Jabbar said. myriad types into a single solution. In The Bangabandhu-1's position is far from the network, hobby astronomers can “We are very excited to deliver these Bangladesh, due to which the country be just as important as the government channels with a razor-sharp thematic focus cannot get full use of the satellite. “It is was in identifying satellites. to the Philippines,” said Ralph Siebenaler, a geostationary one and the country does CEO of Magistan Media / Mediahouse.PH. not need another of the same kind,” Jabbar “This contract represents the beginning “With this new platform, we are delivering said. of a truly collaborative Space Domain new content cost-effectively, and in Awareness capability that can excellent technical quality to millions of The country's first communications encompass many ground-based households. This platform is also an satellite, Bangabandhu-1, was designed observations which dozens of cutting- excellent opportunity for global content and built by Thales Alenia Space, a Franco- edge companies generate every day,'' owners or TV channels to enter the Italian aerospace manufacturer. It was explained Saber Astronautics Director Philippine market or extend their reach.” launched into space from Florida on May 11 Andreas Antoniades. “This project will last year. All local television channels are help everyone have safer missions, “As the video landscape is increasingly now broadcasting via the satellite, taking protect the planet, and assist with the competitive in the Philippines, pay-TV up about 40 percent of Bangabandhu-1's growing problem of space traffic operators need to differentiate themselves capacity. Meanwhile, France has also management.” by offering new content to their audiences, expressed its interest in financing the and this new TV platform aims to help them second satellite. Jabbar said the Mediahouse.PH and achieve just that. It is also an excellent government had an election promise to example of how SES goes beyond launch a second satellite and by 2023 they SES Launch CLUBTV, leveraging the power of satellite to want this satellite to at least take shape for partnering with local players, and jointly launch. A senior official of BCSCL said they delivering more TV IN THE NEWS AMERICAS
JFK's terminal one launches information. The delivered platform coverage through the TactilonAgnet 800 facial recognition boarding accommodates the individual carriers' application installed on the device. This boarding processes through next- enables a seamless network change with Vision-Box generation common-use services which supports public safety operations enabling JFK with one of the largest and maximises the benefits of hybrid Vision-Box and TOGA partnered to biometric boarding capability planned to communications.The security of the successfully launch biometric boarding at be successfully deployed in the US. solution is preserved because all JFK to upgrade the passenger Steve Rowland, TOGA Executive TactilonAgnet traffic is securely experience. Vision-Box and Terminal Director, commented: “Biometric self- protected via the secure client VPN. In One Group Association (TOGA) boarding is one of our top priorities – the event of lack of coverage, the end- announce a landmark agreement improving the passenger experience users can now benefit from an instant providing seamless biometric boarding at and enhancing security and safety for all and seamless switchover from Tetra to New York's John F. Kennedy those who travel at JFK Terminal One. LTE to maintain their mission and International Airport (JFK). Lufthansa is We are proud to introduce this unique, business critical operations. the launch carrier deploying the one-step paperless, biometric boarding process, paperless biometric boarding process at and CBP and Vision-Box have been tr On top of the smooth transition between their largest US gateway. Air France, emendous partners in this effort.” both Tetra and public or private LTE Japan Airlines, and Norwegian Airlines The deployment of biometric boarding Public Safety solutions proposed by the are expected to follow suit, as part of all has strategic purposes for the US new feature, the user can benefit from all 22 international carriers operating from Government as well. The boarding the fundamental TactilonDabat JFK Terminal 1. solution was fast tracked for use by characteristics, such as individual voice The digital advancement of the passenger CBP's Biometric Exit program, with calls and messaging with status reports, experience at JFK's Terminal One is a positive results outlined in the Fiscal group calls, group messaging, and partnership between Vision-Box, TOGA, Year 2018 Entry/Exit Overstay Report by emergency calls. and US Customs and Border Protection the US Department of Homeland (CBP). With rising passenger volumes and Security. Within the next four years, it is Brazil launches first 5G demand for quicker and contactless expected that CBP's Biometric Exit processes, TOGA turned to seamless technology will cover more than 97% of Broadcast trial biometrics as a primary solution. Boarding departing commercial air travelers. airplanes with up to 500 passengers in under 20 minutes have tremendously Airbus unveils network Grupo Globo, which runs the largest improved the guest experience with using Brazilian and Latin American TV facial recognition to replace passport and switchover technology network, has carried out the first 5G boarding pass checks. with Dabat Hybrid Broadcast field trial in Brazil at the occasion of the Rock in Rio festival. Miguel Leitmann, CEO and Founder of Roaming The objective of the project, launched Vision-Box, reinforces: “It's become w i t h e q u i p m e n t f r o m G e r m a n crucial for airports and airlines to adopt manufacturer Rohde & Schwarz, is to biometric capabilities along the processes Airbus demonstrated Dabat Hybrid validate the operability and market which require interaction with the traveler, Roaming, its latest development which opportunities of the 5G Broadcast therefore enhancing and scaling combines the power of secure technology. operational capacity for growing quicker communications with innovative The Rock in Rio festival was broadcast within their existing footprint. Our Vision- technology. Dabat Hybrid Roaming,a on an experimental UHF channel using Box Orchestra platform enables airports unique association between Airbus' the new technology in late September and airline's capacity to grow digital and TactilonDabat hybrid terminal, and the 2019. Rohde & Schwarz supplied an substantially improve performance TactilonAgnet 800 Solution has made its R&S TMU9evo transmitter and the R&S indicators, while seamlessly securing grand entrance at this year's event and BSCC network component. passenger's journey and privacy.” has been introduced in the Middle East 5G Broadcast has a signal characteristic The biometric platform is designed to and North Africa (MENA) region for the similar to that employed in digital securely identify travelers with a brief first time. It is designed to bring ease and terrestrial TV. Like the 5G Today project glance at a camera and instantly verify simplicity to daily operations with state- in Bavaria, Germany, the field trial is their identity with US CBP. The seamless of-the-art seamless switchover intended to contribute information for and efficient one-step process validates technology which ensures high network discussing the further development of the eligibility of the traveler without having resilience and secure operations. TV in Brazil and worldwide. to present a passport or boarding pass. The Airbus TactilonDabat hybrid Aircraft entry is accomplished with a full terminal combines both Tetra and LTE digital boarding experience, where radio technologies in one unique Viasat's dual-band in- passengers are boarded in a seamless terminal. The end users can perform and paced way, allowing the airlines to their daily tasks without being restricted flight connectivity save time and gain efficiencies. solely to the Tetra radio coverage system receives Being an innovation leader aiming to available. TactilonAgnet 800 is an app ensure maximum passenger privacy and for smart devices such as the supplemental type TactilonDabat. It enables the use of security, Vision-Box's seamless boarding certificate solution is certified by the Privacy-by- features such as push-to-talk, status Design seal from the leading authorities in notifications, data transmission, text this matter. This means that personal messaging, image sending and Viasat, a global communications biographic and biometric data is managed emergency calls on the TactilonDabat. company, announced its dual-band (Ku- by a thoroughly audited and certified Group communication with other device Ka) business aviation in-flight software platform designed for maximum carriers and the control room is also connectivity (IFC) system received protection. No personal data or images is possible. Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) stored by private entities and only US Dabat Hybrid Roaming extends Tetra from the FAA certifying its use on the government maintains the US departure radio coverage by switching to LTE Bombardier Global 5000/6000/GEX
36 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS family of business jets. At all stages of Incorporated (CSL), is pleased to flight, crew and passengers aboard the announce the award of a new Federal The Ku-band receive channel allows Global 5000/6000/GEX family of aircraft A v i a t i o n A d m i n i s t r a t i o n ( FA A ) designers of satellite-on-the-move are now able to enjoy advanced streaming supplemental type certificate (STC) for stabilised antenna platforms to eliminate services including Viasat Unlimited installation of satellite communications frequency conversion hardware from the Streaming, participate in conference calls (SATCOM) provisions on Boeing B777- rotating side of the assembly, making for a and leverage other business and 300 and B777-300ER series aircraft. This simpler and more compact antenna entertainment applications. award helps ensure consumers have the design. In addition, the device's two- “By delivering high-speed and high- high-quality, in-flight connectivity that they channel non-contacting design means it quality in-flight connectivity, Viasat's dual- have come to expect each time they fly. can provide the long life with continuous band solution creates an enhanced The specified FAA STC allows for the rotation that is required for use in compact passenger journey,” said Jerry Sanders, installation of structural provisions and the radar antennas. director, Business Development at outside aircraft equipment package for a StandardAero. “Bombardier owners will cabin upgrade incorporating a dual-band In terms of microwave performance, the now have the option to invest in a new IFC (Ka/Ku) terminal. The dual-band terminal central transmit channel delivers a VSWR system that will let passengers and crew allows for in-flight network switching of 1.3:1, an insertion loss of 0.3dB and use the internet however they prefer. across Ku- and Ka-band satellite power rating of 20W CW, while the outer T h r o u g h t h i s e x c l u s i v e o f f e r, networks, providing more reliable in-flight receive channel achieves a VSWR of StandardAero is providing a unique entertainment and communication 1.35:1, insertion loss of 0.5dB and a competitive option for aircraft owners.” access to travelers. power rating of 10W CW. Viasat's dual-band offering combines the “We are proud to announce this advantages of Ka- and Ku-band into a certification, the second for this system The internal design of the AMCORJD- single solution that provides added and sixth overall for CarlisleIT's 2KU is based on techniques used in Link reliability. This hybrid service allows an connectivity platform,” said Chris Rawley, Microtek's large, complex S-band rotary aircraft to leverage the ability to shift product line manager, aircraft connectivity joints, which are typically deployed in air- between networks, utilizing Ku-band to solutions of CIT. “By collaborating with the traffic control, weather forecasting and supplement Ka-band services. The dual- committed team at Jamco Aero Design s h i p b o r n e a p p l i c a t i o n s . T h e band offering provides global high-speed and Engineering (JADE), we were able to miniaturisation involved in this transfer of coverage across the world's most heavily successfully complete the overall technology was a major developmental traveled flight routes with speeds that are SATCOM system installation and bring challenge as the new device measures high-quality, consistent and available. high-quality results to the airlines and our only 63.5 (D) x 37.2 (L) mm, excluding its Built for the future, Viasat's dual-band customers. This certification, among four SMA female connectors, whereas the system will be forward-compatible with others, marks another way in which S-band rotary joints can be in excess of a Viasat's future-generation satellite CarlisleIT is leading the connected aircraft metre in length. Designed and constellation, ViaSat-3, which is expected market.” manufactured at Link's premises in to deliver greater global capacity and even The certified installation design follows a Basingstoke, the AMCORJD-2KU is higher internet speeds than Viasat's previously issued FAA STC for Airbus fabricated from lightweight aluminium current satellite fleet. In addition to A320 series aircraft. CIT provided all with a sealing rating of IP64 to protect it delivering powerful speeds, Viasat's dual- design, qualification, approvals, and from the ingress of moisture and dust. It band system also provides a back-up certification resources associated with the has an operating temperature range of - connectivity solution, taking advantage of installation. The aircraft equipment 40 to 55°C and is specified with a 10 year two networks from one trusted source. packages were manufactured and lifetime of continuous rotation. conformed at the company's facility in “Securing STC approval for Bombardier Franklin, Wis. Global 5000/6000/GEX aircraft is a Infinet Wireless significant milestone,” said Claudio demonstrates cutting- D'Amico, business area director, Business Link Microtek's new Aviation, Viasat. “Our technical dual-channel Ku-band edge fixed wireless innovations and capabilities are enabling access solutions at Bombardier Global business jet rotary joint is ideal for passengers and crew to be highly satellite-on-the-move WISPAPALOOZA 2019 productive and entertained even at 40,000 feet. In working with StandardAero we are and radar applications Infinet Wireless, the global leader in fixed enabling business passengers and crew broadband wireless connectivity, will to get a high-quality service wherever they The latest addition to Link Microtek's showcase its brand-new mmWave-band fly.” Operators and other maintenance, comprehensive range of microwave solutions designed to enable customers repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities that rotary joints is the AMCORJD-2KU to enhance speeds, capacities and support Bombardier Global aircraft can device, which offers a coaxial dual- latencies, all while reducing costs, at work directly with StandardAero to install channel Ku-band capability that makes it WISPAPALOOZA 2019. Viasat's dual-band IFC system aboard the ideal for both satellite-on-the-move and Bombardier Global 5000/6000/GEX. radar applications, either military or In Las Vegas, Nevada, from Tuesday, commercial. While microwave rotary October 15 to Thursday, October 17, Carlisle Interconnect joints of this type are usually designed Infinet Wireless will showcase its brand- with a high-frequency transmit channel new Axion 28 portfolio – its latest Technologies (CIT) and a lower-frequency L-band receive breakthrough in wireless broadband announces new satcom channel, the new device features two access within the 28 GHz band. The new channels operating in the Ku band. family of solutions is designed to support STC Minimising crosstalk is therefore a critical the deployment of high-density multipoint consideration, and the rotary joint networks that deliver performance up to Carlisle Interconnect Technologies (CIT), achieves an impressive 50dB minimum 1,200 Mbps in the 56 MHZ band. a division of Carlisle Companies isolation between the channels with typical figures being better than 70dB. With Axion 28, Wireless Internet Service
37 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS
Provider (WISP) multiservice-networks EOS SAR has been in stealth mode for infrastructure can be rolled-out in urban Broadcasting/CBNN over two years. EOS has more than 5 landscapes, laying the foundation for smart signs major Satellite years of experience in developing data cities to be built from distributed enterprise analytics products and cloud services for networks with as much as 10km between Television Distribution optical and SAR data from satellites. sites, to CCTV and traffic-management deal throughout Over the years the company has systems and networks in remote areas. developed an in-depth understanding of Europe, Asia and North commercial and government remote “So far 2019 has been a year in which 5G America sensing markets, which informed the has really started to come to fruition,” said decision to create its own SAR satellite Kamal Mokrani, Global Vice President at constellation. Infinet Wireless. “As a result, operators BBN (Blake Broadcasting) has executed across America and around the globe are a 3-year+ deal with SES as its exclusive "EOS learned that the remote sensing racing to upgrade their networks to satisfy broadcast Satellite Network Provider for market has strong demand for high- end-users' demands for faster, enhanced CBNN Networks in Europe, Asia and resolution high-quality SAR data, but low connectivity. However, there are many North America. CBNN is a growing supply of such data. The choice of SAR hurdles ahead in achieving ubiquitous network of cable (linear television) technology is driven by the need to connectivity, such as spectrum congestion properties and OTT Networks reaching image Earth's surface through dense in traditional frequency bands below 6GHz over 400 million homes. SES is the cloud cover, in any season and all and spectrum re-farming when operators' largest satellite operator in the world, weather. It is critical for users to have ex-WiMAX spectrum is being taken away. representing the most significant reach in access to uninterrupted, persistent “At WISPAPALOOZA 2019, we will the broadcast industry. SES also works situational awareness," said Max demonstrate how telecom operators and with the world's largest live sports, news Polyakov, CEO of EOS and Managing enterprises can overcome these and event organizations, and takes care Partner at Noosphere Ventures. challenges and increase connectivity of the distribution networks, playout speeds, capacities and raise their service workflows, content management and EOS engineers have already designed a levels with our brand-new industry-first monetization services and all backend radar prototype and are moving ahead mmWave-band solutions – providing them services, so that CBNN can focus on with the development of a low-cost high- with a competitive edge.” delivering the highest quality content to performance SAR payload for small their audiences worldwide. satellites with ultra-high resolution down Representing a new phase in the “We are very pleased to work with SES as to 25 cm. EOS SAR satellites will development of the 71-76 GHz frequency they are the premiere broadcast satellite operate in Stripmap and Spotlight range, Infinet Wireless will also present its provider in the world. We are especially modes (including interferometry) and will Quanta 70 family of wireless products. The honored to be a selected broadcaster on cover a wide range of applications. EOS solution is designed to enable wireless the Astra 1M or 19.2 E Satellite, as that is is also considering dual-frequency SAR systems to deliver performance up to 480 the most exclusive and most watched in X-band and S-band on a single Mbps in the 125 MHz band at distances of satellite platform in Europe. Our satellite. Dual-band operation increases up to 5km. Furthermore, the range is also broadcast operations in Europe will be versatility for all weather imaging and characterized by low usage and an proudly based out of Luxembourg. SES improves object-ground contrast. A absence of licensing and can be used to will also manage our satellite broadcasts special configuration of the radar front create high-density networks with minimal throughout Asia and North America and end allows for imaging of selected areas mutual influence of wireless systems. our linear television expansion plans in both bands in a single orbit. Infinet Wireless will showcase several throughout 2020. In addition, MX1 (now upgrades to its point-to-point (PTP) merged into SES) will manage overall The SAR payload incorporates a portfolio, including the second generation of c h a n n e l c o n t e n t d i s t r i b u t i o n , deployable reflector antenna developed its InfiLINK XG 1000 – a record-breaking management, playout and monetization in-house at EOS. This antenna solution designed for high performance integration. Their exceptional level of technology enables EOS SAR backhaul. service will allow us to primarily instrument to improve satellite efficiency concentrate on providing the highest and offer superior image quality. Infinet's Quanta 5 – the industry's highest quality news, sports, Esports and Moreover, the antenna itself has low spectral efficiency solution suitable for a entertainment content for our channels. mass and dimensional characteristics, diverse range of applications including We look forward to SES playing a key part making it more favorable and less costly b a c k - h a u l i n g f o r b a s e s t a t i o n s , in our rapid global growth,” said Bob to launch the satellite into orbit. transmission of high resolution CCTV and Blake, CEO of Blake Broadcasting and a "EOS is strategically leveraging deep video streams, and providing internet founder of CBNN, Oak Park Capital and expertise and diverse capabilities within access to remote locations – will also be on several news networks. Noosphere Ventures portfolio including display. radar electronics, deployable antennas, “WISPA is the voice of the fixed wireless EOS to create its own propulsion systems, batteries, and data broadband industry and represents the analytics in order to create a SAR innovators across the industry which are radar microsatellite payload technology which delivers looking to provide fast, affordable unsurpassable performance at an connectivity – that is why it is only natural for constellation "EOS unbeatable price. At the same time, we us to demonstrate our latest cutting-edge SAR" are open to cooperation and are solutions designed to support telcos' and currently looking for bus providers and a enterprises' network upgrades as they look constellation owner to deploy and to increase their capacity and coverage at US-based EOS Data Analytics Inc. monetize the constellation. The this year's event,” added Kamal. (EOS), a space portfolio company of constellation will be part of a fully US Noosphere Ventures, today unveiled owned and operated commercial remote EOS SAR – a project to develop its own sensing enterprise," Max Polyakov synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors added. intended for deployment in a constellation EOS is building a SAR satellite payload Blake of microsatellites.
38 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS suitable for constellations enabling high terminal; either operates as the primary revisit rates. A constellation of 12 Maxar opens new network path or as back-up, with automatic satellites will provide 2-3 hours revisit failover switching between the two paths. time for a given area. The first SAR facility in St. Louis to satellite launch is expected in 2022, with support growth in U.S. “The future of business is hyper-connected,” commercial constellation operations said Dan Rasmussen, senior vice president, beginning in 2023. National Geospatial- North America Enterprise, Hughes. “Virtually Intelligence Agency all distributed enterprises – such as quick Raytheon to help Jet service restaurants, convenience stores and Programs gas stations – span urban, suburban and Propulsion Lab explore remote locations that all require secure, the universe reliable and scalable Internet connections. Maxar Technologies announced that it will The HT2000L meets that need with a single, open a new facility in St. Louis, Missouri, to plug-and-play device that delivers Raytheon Company will develop new support growth in several U.S. National broadband speeds as either a satellite space systems and flight software, and Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) modem, an LTE modem or both.” provide engineering, training and programs. operations support for NASA's Jet “The TMC Labs INTERNET TELEPHONY Propulsion Laboratory, managed by The facility will be located in the historic Innovation Award recognizes the best and Caltech, under a five-year, $150 million Globe Building, in the heart of downtown the most unique products and services that contract. The contract could potentially St. Louis. Maxar expects 48 employees to this industry has to offer. Hughes has proven be worth $300 million over 10 years if initially staff the facility, most of whom are their commitment to quality and the further all options are exercised. new hires that will support the NGA's development of the IP communications "JPL's pioneering spacecraft and rovers Global EGD, Janus Geography and SBIR industry through its HT2000L,” stated Rich have led to groundbreaking discoveries Phase III contracts. St. Louis is the Tehrani, CEO, TMC. “Congratulations to the of our solar system and beyond," said Midwest geospatial hub of the United entire team at Hughes for earning this great Dave Wajsgras, president of Raytheon States in part due to its proximity to the honor. I look forward to seeing more Intelligence, Information and Services. National Geospatial and Intelligence innovative solutions from them as they "This is an incredible opportunity to Center West facility, the T-REX Geospatial continue to contribute to the future of IP continue enabling the future of space Resource and Innovation Center and communications.” exploration." several other commercial GEOINT “Hughes is honored to be recognized for this Work on the new contract is expected to companies. innovation in multi-path networking and begin in October, though Raytheon has performance optimization technology,” said supported JPL since the 1960s, when “The establishment of our cutting-edge Rasmussen. “Our commitment to going the the company developed the Mars facility in St. Louis is a strong reflection of extra mile to deliver value to our customers Infrared Radiometer for the Mariner Maxar's commitment to unlocking the inspires us to innovate industry-defining missions. The company currently power of geospatial data for our solutions.” manages the lab's data systems, testing customers,” said Tony Frazier, Maxar's and developing software and providing Executive Vice President of Global Field ThinKom completes first- on-call technical support during critical Operations. “This new facility will provide events like Mars rover landings. our customers with easier access to better ever in-flight MEO-GEO "For the past 20 years, we've worked geospatial products and insights for side-by-side with JPL's engineers and success across the breadth of defense satellite roaming tests scientists," said Todd Probert, vice and intelligence missions.” president of Raytheon IIS. "Helping JPL ThinKom Solutions, Inc. has completed a explore the mysteries of our universe is The operations of DigitalGlobe, SSL series of very successful in-flight something most of our team literally (Space Systems Loral) and Radiant connectivity tests of its Ka-band antenna on dreamed about when they were kids." Solutions were unified under the Maxar SES' O3b medium-Earth orbit (MEO) and As part of the new contract, Raytheon brand in February; MDA continues to geostationary (GEO) satellites. The tests will also be supporting a number of operate as an independent business unit provided the first live demonstration of classified missions. within the Maxar organization. airborne communication with the O3b MEO satellites and included seamless handovers between MEO and GEO satellites during In addition to supporting JPL, Raytheon tHughes receives 2019 IIS manages a large portfolio of space flight. programs for the U.S. government, Innovation Award for The in-flight demos used the Thales including the Neutral Buoyancy Lab, a industry-first combined FlytLIVE connectivity network and 6.2 million gallon instrumented pool at incorporated the Hughes JUPITER™ NASA Johnson Space Center where LTE and satellite router ModMan integrated to the ThinKom Ka2517 astronauts learn to work in space and antenna. train on a submerged full-size mockup The flights took place Sept. 17-18 over Hughes Network Systems, the world's of the International Space Station. South Florida and the Caribbean Sea, using leading provider of broadband satellite a commercially available ThinKom Ka2517 networks and services, announced today The company manages NASA's earth phased-array airborne antenna mounted on that TMC, a global, integrated media science data network — which makes a Gulfstream G-III test aircraft. With the company, has named the Hughes critical climate data available to Hughes JUPITER Aeronautical system and HT2000L Multi-Path Terminal as winner of researchers — and developed and ModMan, the antenna demonstrated the its 2019 TMC Labs INTERNET sustains the Joint Polar Satellite System ability to achieve high data throughput rates TELEPHONY Innovation Award. The first ground station, which tracks storms. while seamlessly switching among of its kind in the industry, the HT2000L Raytheon IIS also operates the United successive O3b MEO satellites, as well as provides connectivity for both satellite and States' two primary space launch transfers between O3b and SES' GEO LTE services in a single hardware facilities. constellations.
39 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS
The Ka2517 achieved downlink error- level of operational models,” said Elias spectacular projects. The duos have free data throughput rates in excess of Zaccack, Executive Vice President, Global created numerous award-winners of 265Mbps, with beam switching speeds Sales, at SES Networks. “We're very several Emmys, Broadcast Innovation of less than one second, while excited to have achieved this milestone Awards and more with their superior work automatically resolving adjacent together with our long-term partner Thales, and ready to bring together their satellite interference (ASI) issues. as this is yet another example of how our e x p e r t i s e . “This is the first in-flight demonstration mutual collaboration continues to bring Lawrence Jones, Executive Creative o f a n a e r o n a u t i c a l a n t e n n a innovative connectivity solutions with Director at Sequin AR, said: 'We are communicating across a MEO-GEO unmatched performance.” excited to partner with Zero Density to hybrid satellite network. The Ka2517 “These in-flight tests performed together create groundbreaking augmented with the JUPITER ModMan met or with SES, ThinKom and Hughes are an reality, virtual sets, and immersive exceeded all test parameters for outstanding demonstration of the experiences leveraging the power of spectral efficiency, data throughput, seamless connectivity through MEO and Reality Engine. Together we will push the beam agility, switching speeds, ASI GEO satellite systems. Thales Alenia boundaries of what is possible for Zero mitigation, low-angle performance and Space was particularly pleased to Density clients.' inter-constellation roaming,” said participate in this worldwide first, using the Ulaº Kaçmaz, Vice President of Sales & ThinKom Chief Technology Officer Bill O 3 b s a t e l l i t e c o n s t e l l a t i o n w e Marketing at Zero Density, said 'It is Milroy. manufactured for SES,” said Pascal thrilling to be working with Sequin and its “The demonstration further establishes Homsy, Executive Vice President, creative team, consisting of award- that ThinKom has the only proven 'no Telecommunications Business Line, winning pioneers and trend-setters. Zero compromise' antenna solutions that Thales Alenia Space Density and Sequin will become a can support seamless global satellite powerhouse that will actualize striking communication in the air with automatic Comtech awarded $3.0 projects.'? roaming among GEO, LEO and MEO Unreal Engine native Reality Engine is a constellations,” Milroy added. m additional funding real-time node-based compositor with its Based on ThinKom's patented phased- from U.S. Army proprietary keying technology Reality array VICTS technology, the Ka2517 is Keyer, offering the most photorealistic 3D an airborne antenna designed to virtual studio and augmented reality communicate through satellites in low, Comtech announced its Mission-Critical product in the industry. Sequin AR's medium and geostationary orbits. The Technologies group, which is part of launch of Augmented Reality TV and Film low-profile antenna radome provides Comtech's Government Solutions Division with ICM and the partnership near-zero aeronautical drag in flight segment, received additional funding of with Zero Density aim to bridge the gap and supports global coverage including $3.0 million on the previously announced between Hollywood producers and polar and equatorial latitudes. The field- three-year $124.2 million contract to technology vendors as well as expanding proven Ka2517 is currently in provide ongoing sustainment services for the use of Unreal `Engine in commercial production, and units are in the AN/TSC-198A SNAP (Secret Internet entertainment. o p e r a t i o n a l s e r v i c e o n U . S . Protocol Router (“SIPR”) and Non- government aircraft. classified Internet Protocol Router “The test by ThinKom underscores the (“NIPR”) Access Point), and baseband Vishipel selects effectiveness of the Hughes JUPITER equipment. SNAP terminals provide quick System for both MEO and GEO and mobile satellite communications ORBCOMM's vessel connectivity, and, when combined with capabilities to personnel in the field. The monitoring system for a high-quality antenna such as the contract has been funded $77.9 million to ThinKom Ka2517, to deliver superior date. commercial fishing spectral efficiency, link availability and “We are pleased the U.S. Army continues market in Vietnam performance,” said Reza Rasoulian, to trust Comtech's expertise in providing Vice President, Hughes Network quality support for our fielded VSAT Systems, LLC (HUGHES). ORBCOMM Inc., a global provider of systems,” said Fred Kornberg, President Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and Internet SES' high-throughput O3b MEO and Chief Executive Officer of Comtech constellation is the only operationally of Things (IoT) solutions, has announced Telecommunications Corp. “This that it has been selected by Vishipel, a and commercially proven non- additional funding demonstrates the geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) leading provider of telecommunications importance of the mission supporting our services and maritime equipment, to broadband constellation today. The warfighters.” constellation has positively impacted provide its Vessel Monitoring System millions of people with low-latency, (VMS) for commercial fishing vessels high-performance data connectivity Zero Density, Sequin AR throughout Vietnam. ORBCOMM's VMS services and has enabled SES announces partnership delivers complete visibility and control of Networks, SES' business unit focused fishing vessels and maintains vital on data solutions, to offer more to push boundaries of communications links with home ports capacity, enhanced coverage, reality in the United utilizing ORBCOMM's satellite service increased efficiencies and greater offering. flexibility to its customers. States Vishipel is using ORBCOMM's robust “These successful demo tests are VMS as a major component of their raising the bar for in-flight connectivity Zero Density continues to expand its VIFISH 18 kit in order to improve the and the connected passenger exquisite global partner network with monitoring, control and management of experience. The seamless integration another significant partnership, this time in fisheries resources by the Vietnamese of our MEO and GEO satellite networks the United States. Ground-breaking virtual government to help prevent Illegal, will provide our customers with studio and augmented reality product Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) unprecedented redundancy, higher Reality Engine combined with the Sequin fishing. ORBCOMM's VMS provides connectivity speeds and a whole new AR's creative trailblaze is set to deliver Vishipel's customers with detailed, continuous reports on vessel location IN THE NEWS AMERICAS
and fishing route tracking along with the FAA for the Gulfstream G280™ airframe. noses up at the idea. There was an attitude ability to establish geofences for The FAA's approval of a Supplemental present in the industry that satellites were authorized fishing zone monitoring. The Type Certificate (STC) allows Viasat and for poorer nations who did not control the system can also send real-time weather Gulfstream to offer high-speed, high- same budgets, though the industry does and safety alerts to crews at sea and quality in-flight internet service on the seem to be coming around. e n a b l e s t h e c r e w t o s e n d super-midsize G280 business jet. Upon At Mobile World Congress this year, communications, including distress successful completion of an ongoing In- several companies were touting their alerts, from ship to shore to enhance Service Evaluation (ISE), Viasat's Ka- assets to the increasingly cash-strapped maritime safety and security and help band solution will be made available as a telcos. With the cost of investment in guide rescue operations. In addition, customer option. access infrastructure soaring, satellite is ORBCOMM is working with Vishipel to The STC confirms approval for becoming a more popular feature of the develop direct connections to on-board installation of the Viasat terminal and connectivity patchwork to deliver services and shore-based IT systems to enable wiring on-board the G280 aircraft. With to those in isolated and inaccessible seamless transmission of required forms, the shipset installed, private jet regions. logs and files from the vessel to port passengers and crew can be It does seem the ambitious Musk is authorities, which will help streamline simultaneously connected to a high- backing the continuation of this trend. operations, reduce paperwork and speed, high-quality internet connection Apparently 12,000 satellites isn't ensure regulatory compliance. that will enable multi-site video anywhere near enough. “Utilizing ORBCOMM's advanced IoT conference calling, access to corporate Interestingly enough, reports have also technology, our vessel monitoring system VPN connections and email, streaming emerged SpaceX is in discussions with the provides Vishipel with a comprehensive of bandwidth-intensive videos, TV, music US army for its Starlink broadband feature set at a great value to improve and more – during all stages of flight. network. High-speed, low-latency their customers' maritime safety and Viasat is currently going through an ISE communications are a no-brainer for the operational efficiency, while ensuring with a number of Gulfstream G280 army, especially when you consider the compliance with Vietnamese fishing operators through January 2020. global presence of the US army, though it regulations,” said Marc Eisenberg, Chief Viasat's Ka-band solution is expected to does appear the team is in discussion for Executive Officer of ORBCOMM Inc. be available as a customer option in the the Starship part of the business also. “We're pleased to provide Vishipel with a first quarter of 2020. As it stands, SpaceX's Starship is currently future-proof system that leverages the "Achieving STC approval demonstrates working with NASA as a logistics partner speed, reliability and coverage of the flight worthiness of Viasat's Ka-band after the space agency retired its space ORBCOMM's satellite service offering, in-flight connectivity equipment for use shuttle programme. However, it is also while expanding our geographic reach on super-midsize business jets," said suggested the army is interesting in into Vietnam's growing fisheries market.” Claudio D'Amico, business area director, Starship as a means to quickly move Business Aviation, Viasat. "In working personal around the globe. “ORBCOMM's powerful and reliable with Gulfstream we are now ready to The low-orbit satellite segment is certainly vessel monitoring system helps Vishipel bring faster internet speeds, more starting to heat-up, and this revelation ensure that our customers' fishing capacity for streaming and a forward- should add more fuel to the fire. Alongside vessels are working at peak efficiency at compatible connectivity solution to the SpaceX, the likes of OneWeb, Space all times through continuous monitoring skies. This system will allow any G280 Norway, Telesat, and Amazon are also of vessel performance and maintaining owner to have an onboard internet fighting for real-estate amongst the stars. constant communications with home access system with exceptional quality, Theoretically, the low-orbit satellites ports no matter where they are on the performance and speed. Initial operator should offer greater levels of performance world's oceans,” said Phan Ngoc Quang, feedback from the ongoing evaluations than traditional satellites, gigabit speeds General Director of Vishipel. “Through has been positive, and we are excited to and latency less than 25 ms, though our partnership with ORBCOMM and the make Viasat's Ka-band solution pricing has not been unveiled by the measurable and immediate ROI their available to all G280 customers in the providers. industry-leading VMS product delivers, first quarter of 2020." It is promising to see aggressive progress we are pleased to provide the solution of to enhance the rich tapestry of choice for Vietnamese fisherman.” connectivity, but there are still significant Vishipel is part of an elite group of SpaceX adds another hurdles to overcome. There are currently authorized service providers in Vietnam c.5,000 satellites circling the earth, of to offer a VMS solution to the fishing 30,000 satellites to which only around 2,000 are in operation. industry that meets the Vietnamese already ambitious With some very wealthy companies Government's regulations for vessels launching tens of thousands of satellites that are more than 15 meters to be plans into the skies, each will have to prove their installed with a VMS device by April 2020. plans to minimize debris and prevent Elon Musk's grand plan to dominate the collisions. Viasat's Next- skies just became a lot grander as As it stands, SpaceX has 60 satellites in another application emerges, this time to the skies, which could be as many as Generation Ka-band in- add 30,000 satellites to the SpaceX 1,000 in the very near future. Considering flight connectivity constellation. Submitted to the ITU by the there are only 2,000 currently in operation, FCC on behalf of SpaceX, the paperwork the skies could become very busy in the system approved for would add scope for an additional 30,000 very near future. satellites on top of the 12,000 the Gulfstream G280 company already has permission to Aircraft launch. According to Space News, the GTMaritime protects Viasat, Inc, a global communications FCC submitted 20 filings, each for 1,500 onboard cyber security company, announced its business satellites at different low-earth orbits. in record numbers aviation Ka band in-flight connectivity In recent years, satellite connectivity has (IFC) system has been approved by the proven to be an unpopular means with many telcos in developed nations turning IN THE NEWS
GTMaritime has seen exceptional growth this year and will continue to do our best speeds, a precursor of things to come for in the use of its secure, maritime to keep ahead of the threat profiles.” both commercial and business aviation as optimised email software and other SES nears the scheduled 2021 launch of its cyber-security solutions as vessel GTMaritime continues to respond to O3b mPOWER system. owners and operators step up a gear to rising demand for its security solutions, O3b mPOWER is SES's fully funded, next- harden onboard networks and protect McNally added. Over the past year, it gen, ultra-high-capacity, low-latency, and their ships from digital threats. Many have has added nine new resellers across highly flexible MEO satellite-based data been spurred into action by IMO's Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, he communications system. A scalable terabit- decision to bring cyber-security under the said. level constellation with 35,000 fully- remit of the ISM code from 2022 SES and Thales reach shapeable and steerable beams, O3b Some 5,677 vessels are now employing mPOWER is backwards-compatible with solutions from GTMaritime's portfolio – an record speed and the first-generation O3b MEO system and increase of more than one-third over the can deliver a whole new level of past year. Put another way, nearly one in enhanced coverage via customisation that allows bandwidth to be ten vessels in the global merchant fleet integrated GEO/MEO tailored to specific passenger and are using GTMaritime technology to operational connectivity requirements over safeguard onboard systems from network certain travel routes and regions. m a l i c i o u s c o d e . Notably, the deployment of the made-for- SES and Thales have taken inflight SES's interoperable GEO/MEO platform maritime anti-virus solution GTSentinel connectivity to a new level, successfully has already been validated in the cruise has jumped 23% since September 2018, demonstrating uninterrupted access to industry, revolutionising the guest with nearly 1,500 vessels now high-throughput broadband applications experience at sea by delivering up to 1 subscribing. Standard antivirus for the first time over a platform Gpbs per ship to major cruise lines around protection software can underperform at supporting multi-orbit interoperability, the world with its managed MEO- and GEO- sea due to patchy connectivity and switching seamlessly between SES's based connectivity service. The test flight bandwidth constraints, often leaving geostationary (GEO) and O3b medium paves the way for SES to similarly redefine vessels and businesses at risk. earth orbit (MEO) satellite beams. The the connected air passenger experience by demo flight from Melbourne, Florida to enabling different operational models, GTSentinel was developed specifically the Atlantic coast of Nicaragua saw including blanketing of large dense traffic by GTMaritime to overcome these failure dozens of switches successfully routes, bolstering of capacity around major points. It allows fleet IT managers to completed between GEO and MEO airports, or even following individual aircraft schedule the distribution of anti-virus beams, and between multiple MEO from take-off to landing – all at record updates on a live, daily or weekly basis. satellites within a beam, using the speeds and with low latency. Updates need only be sent once to each Hughes JUPITER(TM) Aeronautical vessel and then propagated to all system high performance airborne “The world's first low-latency, high onboard devices thanks to a unique modem system, SES and Thales performance broadband aero experience is serverless peer-to-peer distribution announced today. closer than ever before with this mechanism. The 'buddy system' tremendously successful demonstration of minimises the impact of updates on the Engineers aboard the test flight were MEO and GEO interoperability. Driving ship's communications infrastructure and able to simultaneously use a broad scale and performance into our customers' lets fleet managers strike a balance range of bandwidth-hungry services networks is fundamental in delivering the between airtime costs and updating anti- demonstrating rates in excess of 265 best passenger experience in the skies. Our virus software Mbps via the Thales FlytLIVE cruise customers have long experienced . connectivity network featuring the the benefits of the combined power that low When coupled with GTMaritime's Hughes JUPITER System and a latency MEO- and GEO-based connectivity advanced email solution, GTMailPlus, Hughes ModMan integrated with the brings to network performance and GTSentinel ensures vessels are ThinKom Ka2517 phased-array resilience. This innovation is now on its way equipped with the highest level of airborne antenna. Leveraging the same for connected commercial and business air protection against ransomware, spam, high-powered, low-latency O3b MEO travel,” said Steve Collar, CEO of SES. “We viruses and malware. capacity that has already redefined are gearing ourselves up for the launch of In the last six months, GTMaritime connectivity at sea, the engineers were O3b mPOWER and now, with a services have stopped more than 59,500 able to demonstrate quality and reliable demonstrated ability to roam seamlessly malware attacks which were unknown to delivery of 4K video streaming, super- across our GEO and MEO networks, our standard antivirus services and halted fast social media networking, e- customers will enjoy unprecedented speed more than 68,000 known viruses in their commerce transactions, audio and performance from our O3b tracks. They have also prevented more conferencing, interactive gaming and constellation, while also benefiting from the than 200,000 spam messages clogging web browsing on-board the Gulfstream scale and reach of our GEO fleet.” up onboard inboxes G-III aircraft.
Mike McNally, who joined GTMaritime The seamless integration of SES's C-Band Alliance joins last year as Sales & Marketing Director, satellite networks offers customers with U.S. wireless has now taken on the role of Global unprecedented redundancy, leveraging Commercial Director, responsible for all two diverse systems to ensure community on FCC filing sales, marketing, technical sales support uninterrupted service: GEO for network detailing C-Band auction and sales operations. He said: “As the resiliency and proven fibre-like high- leading independent provider of maritime performance from O3b MEO. The O3b principles email we feel a responsibility to constellation of 20 MEO satellites is continuously enhance the cyber security manufactured by Thales Alenia Space. The C-Band Alliance (CBA) announced aspect of our solutions. We have made SES expects upcoming GEO/MEO trials that it joined a number of national, regional, hundreds of updates and enhancements to deliver even higher connectivity and rural wireless operators in an FCC filing IN THE NEWS
detailing a set of principles to guide a deployment throughout the continental process for auctioning off terrestrial rights to U.S. In an updated filing with the U.S. FindMy launches next C-band spectrum. Consistent with the goal of Federal Communications Commission generation satellite IoT clearing spectrum and completing the (FCC), the CBA detailed that the 300 auction efficiently and expeditiously, the CBA MHz of spectrum includes a 20-MHz livestock tracker has proposed to clear a first tranche of 120 guard band to protect existing satellite powered by Globalstar MHz of spectrum, inclusive of the 20-MHz services from 5G interference. guard band, in 46 top metropolitan zones Globalstar Europe Satellite Services within 18 months of an FCC order. The Further enhancing its plan to clear Ltd.announced that FindMy, the IoT animal second tranche of the remaining spectrum s p e c t r u m q u i c k l y, t h e f i r s t tracking pioneer, has launched its next- would be made available within 36 months of tranche—which clears spectrum within generation tracker. The FindMy e-Bell the C-band auction, providing cleared 18 months of an FCC order in 46 top Model 2 collar is more robust, smaller and spectrum throughout the entire continental metropolitan zones—is ` now lighter, and now features Bluetooth for U.S. increased to 120 MHz, inclusive of the easy set-up and a longer-life replaceable 20-MHz guard band. The second battery for lower maintenance. The auction design outlined in the principles tranche of the remaining spectrum will Today, as FindMy marks its 10-year agreed to by the CBA and the wireless be made available within 36 months partnership with Globalstar, and with over operators addresses the shared goals of from a CBA-led auction, providing 45,000 collars deployed in the field, fairness and transparency and assures that cleared spectrum throughout the entire FindMy collars have transmitted 20 million IoT tracking messages by satellite, the auction is open to all qualified bidders, continental U.S. enabled by Globestar's powerful, low cost consistent with FCC practice. The auction STX3 chipset and its worldwide fleet of principles suggest use of a multi-round As it completed the work necessary to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. This data ascending clock auction format that is enhance its proposal, the CBA allows farmers to reliably monitor and substantively similar to other recent FCC collaborated closely with U.S. protect their valuable herds wherever they auctions. The principles call for a single broadcasters and programmers that roam, including regions beyond the reach auction that would include all proposed serve nearly 120 million American of mobile phone networks. cleared spectrum, divided into 20 MHz homes via the C-band. This work blocks based on PEAs, regardless of included analyzing the potential use by The appeal of FindMy is such that it has clearing timing or tranche. Other principles some customers of technologies such even attracted customers whose farms are detailed in the filing include the setting of an as advanced modulation, single format in locations with good mobile coverage – aggregate reserve price and the agreement transport and advanced video this is due to the price competitiveness of for participants to be bound by the FCC's compression, including High Efficiency FindMy's satellite-enabled solution, and communications rules, reporting obligations, Video Coding (HEVC). Each of these the highly functional and user-friendly app and enforcement. technologies improves the efficiency of and user interface which FindMy provides. satellite video delivery, allowing the FindMy has spent the last two years As the CBA has previously committed, the same video content to be transmitted designing and engineering the new animal collar, which will be available from Spring joint principles call for a portion of the auction over less spectrum. The CBA proposal 2020. Additional new features include a proceeds, beyond what is needed to cover c o m m i t s t o i m p l e m e n t t h e s e custom antenna that adds extra assurance the costs of the auction and the transition of technology upgrades at no cost to of successful message transmission, and the spectrum, to be contributed to the U.S. those satellite customers implementing a new app that makes it easy for farmers to Treasury. them. configure and customise the collar's C-Band Alliance Chief Executive Officer Bill transmission settings. The e-Bell Mark 2 is Tolpegin said, “The alignment of The CBA remains committed to easily self-configurable for farmers and the stakeholders in the creation of an open and ensuring that existing customers new industrial-grade FindMy devices are competitive 5G environment in the U.S. is a continue to enjoy the quality of service engineered to meet military-level satcoms significant step forward and a win for all they experience now, with no standards for robustness in all weather concerned. An expeditious sales process interference from 5G services deployed conditions. that is transparent, well-understood by in the future. The CBA member potential buyers, and consistent with FCC companies will maintain continuity of all Enhanced software can now deliver a processes paves the way for our clearing of current C-band customer services and complete snapshot update of the the spectrum and the deployment of 5G maintain the value of the continental herd/flock location at particular times of services in C-band within 18 months of an U.S. C-band video distribution day specified by the farmer dependent on FCC order. We are confident that the CBA neighborhoods. In its most recent ex when they head out to the hills to check on the animals. The system also includes an proposal generates the greatest value for the parte filing, the CBA updated its improved accelerometer sensitive enough U.S. in terms of both public interest and commitments to its customers, to detect whether an animal is in distress, economic benefit. It is the right path for including on key elements such as the such as if it is frightened or being chased. enabling 5G leadership in the United States.” transition plan, hardware selection, and interference detection processes. The Norwegian sheep farmer HalvorMjoen C-Band Alliance CBA also affirms its commitment to originally founded FindMy in 2009 to covering all other costs of the transition, support his fellow sheep farmers whose proposes to clear 300 such as the required filtering of earth flocks graze fence-free in the mountains stations throughout the continental and often range across borders into MHz of spectrum for U.S. as outlined in previous CBA Sweden, Finland as well as Russia. In nationwide 5G submissions and the order of eight new addition to monitoring sheep, FindMy has satellites from U.S. manufacturers. also been adopted by reindeer-herders, deployment many with ancestral heritage from the The C-Band Alliance (CBA) announced that indigenous Sami communities in the far it will commit to clear 300 MHz of C-band North, whose livestock range across the spectrum to support fast 5G wireless Arctic Circle.
AFRICA
With advert placement, you support the publication of this magazine in Africa. Advertising in Spacewatchafrica will offer your institution/organisation a cost-effective platform to reach your potential clients and business partners. We offer you exclusive contact with your business partners, government officials, academic and industry sectors.
SPACEWATCHAFRICA MAGAZINE MOST CURRENT ADVERTISEMENT RATES
4-color Advertising Rates Colour Dimension Back Cover Full Page $3,000 9.5” x 13” Inside Back Cover Full Page $2,000 9.5” x 13” Inside Front Cover Full Page $2,000 9.5” x 13” Inside Full Page $2,300 9.5” x 13” Inside Half Page $1.250 4.75”x 13” Double Spread $5,000 Special page 2(inside front cover) and 3 $6,000 Two adjoining centre page $5,000 Front page earpiece $1,500 (One third) $750 4.75” x 6.5” Special Report (including editorial) $3,000 Full cover page spotlight (special) $15,000
Advertisement placements on African Satellite Communications Yearbook attracts discounted rates, 20% off the above rates.
Hurry now and book your advert on Spacewatchafrica (onine and hard copy edition) as well as the African Satellite Communications Yearbook and benefit from the industry lowest rates while helping your organization reach the widest audience possible across Africa, middle east and beyond.
An additional 30% discount off the advertising rates above will be given to an advertiser who reserves for a minimum of six months (6 advertisements) or more.
All dimensions are listed as width by depth in millimeters (mm). Build pages to trim size and if bleed, extend dimensions beyond page edge by 10mm. Keep live matter 6mm from trim size. Preferred file formats are EPS, JPG or PDF.
For placement enquiries, please email us at [email protected], or call +2348036471114, 7084706167