To expand its content and connectivity services across Europe, Africa and Asia, SES has ordered a software-defined geostationary satellite from Thales Alenia Space.
The third satellite, SES-26, ordered from Thales Alenia Space since November, will carry a communications payload that can be reprogrammed in orbit to adapt to changing mission needs.
SES Chief Technology Officer Ruy Pinto said the satellite is expected to launch in 2024 or 2025, although the company has not selected a launch provider.
SES-26 is the final satellite in a three-satellite contract with Thales Alenia Space for replacing spacecraft coming to the end of their operational lives. SES announced in November that it had ordered ASTRA 1P and ASTRA 1Q as part of this contract.
ASTRA 1Q is a software-defined satellite and ASTRA 1P is a classic wide-beam spacecraft that cannot be reprogrammed in orbit. In 2024, both the ASTRA satellites are scheduled to be launched to 19.2 degrees East to replace four spacecraft that primarily serve broadcast markets.
SES-26 will provide Ku-band and C-band frequencies with its software-defined payload from 57 degrees East, the company said, where it will replace the operator’s retiring NSS-12 satellite that was launched in 2009.
Asked whether SES envisages replacing all its fleet in geostationary orbit (GEO) with software-defined satellites, Pinto said, “Whenever the business case calls for it, yes, we be will looking into future-proofing our satellites.”
As per SES, the SES-26 satellite will be an important platform for supporting government communications solutions. It is in sync with the company’s recently announced acquisition of DRS GES, which provides managed satcoms services to government agencies.
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