[Satellite TODAY Insider 10-12-11] FSS operator SES has won capacity deals on two of its satellites to expand Internet access services across remote regions in several parts of the world, the company announced Oct. 11.

   Constellation Networks Corp. (CNC) entered into multiple capacity lease agreements with SES for transponder space on the NSS-10 and NSS-12 satellites. CNC will use the capacity to deliver communications services to isolated towns and villages across the globe, including Africa, the Middle East, Australia, India, China and Europe.

   Traverse City, Mich.-based CNC said the satellite-delivered broadband would enable the company to support a wide range of applications from AIDS and malaria research to small business growth in African nations. SES said the deal represents a significant step forward for CNC’ initiatives since the customer connected its first cyber café in Lagos, Nigeria.

   “Constellation Networks has grown its innovative satellite broadband business on the SES fleet over the last eight years, connecting remote villages and businesses to the outside world and a brighter future. We look forward to growing our partnership with CNC, which is making a difference in the lives of thousands of people throughout the world,” SES Senior Vice President of Global Sales Scott Sprague said in a statement.

   CNC President and CEO Kristin Grassa added that her company also has used its Internet services for other purposes, including connect American troops serving in Afghanistan and Iraq with their families as a personal satellite broadband provider.

   “Satellite-delivered Internet access is forever changing and improving lives and businesses everywhere, most notably in places where infrastructure is virtually non-existent,” said Grassa. “For example, we have recently been driven to connect the un- and under-connected since living in Sri Lanka without access to basic communications. SES satellites, people and expertise are enabling us to close the communications gap and help ignite economic development around the world.”