SES C-Band Satellite SES-18 Enters Service

SpaceX launches the final two SES C-band replacement satellites on March 17. Photo via SES.

SES’s recently-launched C-band satellite SES-18 is now providing service, the operator announced Tuesday. The satellite replaced SES-3 at the 103 degrees West orbital position. 

SES-18 was launched alongside SES-19 in a SpaceX Falcon 9 mission in March. The operator also announced that SES-19 has reached its orbital slot at 135 degrees West, where it is co-located with SES-22. Both satellites were built by Northrop Grumman. 

With this milestone, SES has deployed its new satellites in the program to clear C-band spectrum for wireless use. SES also has a sixth ground spare for the program if needed. This is ahead of the deadline in December of this year to clear the C-band on an accelerated timeline and receive incentive payment. 

“We are excited to see our final two new C-band satellites in their orbital positions, and for SES-18 to provide continuity of service for our customers in the United States,” said Steve Collar, CEO at SES. “Thanks to our partners who have been an integral part of our C-band transition program, we look forward to completing the program ahead of the FCC’s accelerated relocation deadline.”

This will likely be one of Collar’s last comments as CEO of SES as he is set to step down at the end of this month.