The story of Thaicom is one of the most interesting in our sector. The company took a brave step when it ordered the Ipstar satellite, but it took years for it to make this mission a success. The hire of someone outside the satellite industry to lead the company, would prove to be critical for Thaicom’s prosperity. In a major interview, and as part of our new “Perspective” section, we talk to Suphajee Suthumpun, about turning the company around and the opportunities and challenges that she has faced. It is a fascinating insight, given that she had worked with IBC for more than 20 years before taking on the challenge that was Thaicom.

In this issue we also bring you the first article under our new “Technology Corner” section. This month, we put the spotlight on the amplifier market, always a critical one within the satellite ecosystem, and a vibrant marketplace with many companies competing for business. The “Technology Corner” section will be the space where Via Satellite gets at its most technical and, over the coming months, you will see a mix of articles as we focus on some of the key engineering issues facing the satellite industry.

Additionally, in this issue we look at high-throughput satellites in Latin America, and try to assess what impact they might have. Plus, we put the spotlight on the M2M market, one of those that is well worth keeping an eye on given the potential growth that has been mooted.

We are also looking forward to bringing you our first Via Satellite Excellence Awards later this year where we will recognize companies and people throughout the industry who are making a difference (www.ViaSatellite.com/excellence). With lots of good work going on in the industry, picking winners will be no easy task, but then, that is how it should be!