A sophisticated telecommunications satellite that can be completely repurposed while in space has launched.
Developed under an ESA Partnership Project with satellite operator Eutelsat and prime manufacturer Airbus, Eutelsat Quantum has pioneered a new generation of satellites with the European space industry.
The flexible software-defined satellite – which will be used by governments and in mobility and data markets – was launched on board an Ariane 5 on July 30, 2021, from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.
It has since reached geostationary orbit some 36 000 km above Earth, where the spacecraft systems checkout was successfully completed.
Because the satellite can be reprogrammed in orbit, it can respond to changing demands during its lifetime.
Its beams can be redirected to move in almost real time to provide information to passengers on board moving ships, planes, trucks, lorries and other land-based transport. The beams also can be easily adjusted to deliver more data when demand surges.
The satellite can detect and characterize any rogue emissions, enabling it to respond dynamically to accidental interference or intentional jamming.
The satellite will remain in geostationary orbit for its 15-year lifespan, after which it will be safely placed in a graveyard orbit away from Earth to avoid becoming a risk to other satellites.
Eutelsat Quantum is a UK flagship project with most of the satellite developed and manufactured by British industry. Airbus is the prime contractor and was responsible for building the satellite’s innovative payload, while Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd manufactured the new platform. The innovative phase array antenna was developed by Airbus in Spain.
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