O3b launches satellites, improving global broadband access
O3b’s ‘fiber in the sky’ boosts local economies, promotes development
Le Centre Spatial Guyanais (CSG), Kourou, French Guiana: O3b Networks will today launch 4 satellites, the latest additions to its medium earth orbit constellation which is transforming broadband connectivity to underserved populations around the world.
Arianespace will send the satellites into a circular orbit at an altitude of 8062 km. Lift-off of the Soyuz ST-B launcher is scheduled for 15:55:56, local time (14:55:56 p.m. in Washington DC; 20:55:56 in Paris).
O3b – a reference to the “other 3 billion’’ people on earth who do not have broadband access – will complete its initial constellation with today’s launch, heralding the introduction of O3b’s services on a global basis.
The company, founded in 2007, is already providing services following the launch of its first 4 satellites in 2013 with spectacular results. The O3b system combines the global reach of satellite with the speed of a fiber‐optic network, removing the impact that satellite delay has traditionally had on the quality of satellite connections.
Steve Collar, O3b CEO said:
“When we first envisioned delivering high-speed connections to the underserved populations around the world over a state-of-the-art satellite network, we knew this was a project that could dramatically improve the lives of people. The response that we have had from our customers so far has been emphatic. They tell us that what we are bringing to the market is game-changing and this launch will enable us to provide that same game-changing service globally.”
About O3b Networks Limited
O3b Networks Limited is a global satellite service provider building a next-generation satellite network for telecommunications operators, Internet service providers, enterprise and government customers in emerging markets. The O3b system will combine the global reach of satellite with the speed of a fiber‐optic network providing billions of consumers and businesses in nearly 180 countries with low‐cost, high‐speed, low latency Internet and mobile connectivity. O3b Networks’ investors include SES, Google, Liberty Global, HSBC Principal Investments, Northbridge Venture Partners, Allen & Company, Development Bank of Southern Africa, Sofina, Satya Capital and Luxempart. O3b Networks is headquartered in St. Helier, Jersey, Channel Islands.
