SoftBank Planning LTE Services with Gilat Satellite-Based Cellular Backhaul Technology
Japanese telco SoftBank intends to provide high-speed LTE services using Gilat’s satellite-based cellular backhaul technology following a successful field trial. This technology makes it possible for SoftBank to cost-effectively offer high-speed mobile communication services in remote areas where it is difficult to install fixed-line facilities and base stations.
Optus Satellite and Electrotech Connect Spirit of Tasmania Ferry
Optus Satellite and Electrotech Australia have partnered to provide satellite connectivity to the Spirit of Tasmania, a ferry ship that connects mainland Australia with Tasmania. The companies will enable consumer data and telemetry services to the vessel. Electrotech Australia is supplying, installing and commissioning 33 SeaTel 6012 systems to deliver the high bandwidth Internet.
Explore the April 2016 Issue
Check out more from this issue and find your next story to read.
SES Acquires RR Media for $242 Million
In an effort to expand its media services capabilities, SES has announced the acquisition of RR Media, a company that provides global digital media services to an estimated 1,000 media and broadcast companies. Christophe Hauwer, SES chief development officer anticipates the $242 million acquisition will close mid-year 2016.
European Commission Adds Additional Galileo Launch to Arianespace 2016 Schedule
The European Commission (EC) is accelerating the deployment of the Galileo space segment by adding a Soyuz launch in 2016. Arianespace is now scheduled to conduct the launch of two additional Full Operational Capability (FOC) satellites in May 2016.
Hughes Receives Major Capacity and Equipment Purchase from Mexico’s StarGroup
Mexico-based ISP StarGroup has entered into a contract worth more than $200 million for a significant portion of the capacity on EchoStar 19 and a Hughes Jupiter System for the launch of a high speed Internet service in Latin America.
Brazil’s TIM Exploring Ka-band Satellite Deal with Yahsat
TIM, the second largest mobile operator in Brazil, is in discussions with UAE-based satellite operator Yahsat around the use of Ka-band services in Brazil, commencing in 2017.
Gilat Satcom Releases ‘Digital Classroom In a Box’ Service for Rural Africa
Gilat Satcom is now shipping its “Digital Classroom In A Box” product to Africa. The company developed Digital Classroom In A Box as the e-learning component for its “Smart Village” portfolio launched last year.
DigitalGlobe Forms Joint Venture to Develop SmallSats in Saudi Arabia
DigitalGlobe has formed a joint venture with TAQNIA, a firm dedicated to accelerating technology development for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in partnership with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), to develop a constellation of highly capable small imaging satellites.
Satellite Capacity Prices Dropped 2 to 3 Percent for Past Five Years
Pricing for satellite capacity has fallen at a rate of 2 to 3 percent per year on average since 2010, according to new research from Northern Sky Research (NSR).
Spire Signs Rocket Lab for up to 12 Electron Launches
Spire, a satellite company focused on providing weather and maritime data to public and private customers, has signed a launch services contract with Rocket Lab to fly payloads on up to 12 missions with the Electron vehicle. VS
