The OneWeb constellation consists of over 600 satellites orbiting at 1200 km above Earth in low Earth orbit (LEO). These satellites offer high-speed, low-latency connectivity that spans from the North Pole to the South Pole. Eutelsat OneWeb provides user terminals (UTs), compact devices that function like antennas, connecting users to the satellite network and enabling internet service in remote locations.
These UTs, which vary in size, can be installed on airplanes, ships, vehicles, or buildings, offering reliable connectivity even in extreme environments. They are particularly useful for organizations requiring private, secure networks.
Antarctic exploration and ocean research
ESA, Eutelsat OneWeb, and the UK Space Agency are partnering on two oceanic expeditions to demonstrate the capabilities of these UTs.
The first is the "Sail for Tomorrow" student expedition, where the crew will spend 10 months sailing from France to Tahiti through the Panama Canal. During this voyage, they will conduct oceanic research while engaging with a primary school in France. The UT aboard their ship, "Odyssey," manufactured by Intellian Technologies, will enable real-time sharing of research data and video conferences with students, bringing the science into classrooms. Live updates from the crew will be shared on X (formerly Twitter).
The second is the Polar Pod expedition, led by explorer Dr. Jean-Louis Etienne, which involves building research stations in the seas of the South and North Poles. The Polar Pods will focus on studying carbon dioxide exchanges between the air and sea, ocean salinity, the health of blue whales, and more. The UT installed on Etienne's supply ship "Perseverance" is already supporting operations in the North Pole, with a South Pole expedition planned for 2026.
These expeditions highlight how space technology facilitates Earth-based scientific research, aiding in both environmental protection and education. The reliable UT connectivity ensures that critical data from these remote regions is transmitted seamlessly.
Broader applications of satellite connectivity
While these expeditions demonstrate the potential for UT technology at sea, the broader applications are vast. From disaster response and telemedicine to providing uninterrupted in-flight internet and secure private networks for buildings and trains, the potential is immense. The business sector, in particular, can benefit from enhanced communication capabilities for ships and other long-distance operations.
This satellite technology represents a major advancement in global communication, opening up new opportunities for research, education, and operations in areas previously unreachable.
"Our partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, supported by the UK Space Agency, exemplifies ESA's commitment to fostering a more connected future," said Laurent Jaffart, Director of ESA's Connectivity and Secure Communications. "By enabling high-speed, secure connectivity in even the most remote locations, we're empowering people and businesses across the globe."
Sara Mugnaini, Manager of Advance Engineering and Technologies at Eutelsat Group, added, "The Sunrise Project demonstrates how our LEO-based OneWeb network can provide vital connectivity to the most extreme and remote environments. We're excited to be working alongside our partners on these expeditions to facilitate vital research opportunities."
Henny Sands, Head of Telecommunications at the UK Space Agency, commented, "The UK Space Agency's support for the Sunrise Partnership underscores our commitment to advancing global connectivity services everywhere. By enabling high-speed, secure connectivity in even the most remote locations, we are empowering scientific research and enhancing the capabilities of businesses and communities worldwide."
Organizations interested in exploring this technology are encouraged to reach out here. As satellite connectivity continues to evolve, it is clear that this technology is not just linking devices but connecting people, ideas, and opportunities on a global scale.
Related Links
Connectivity and Secure Communications at ESA
VSAT News - Suppliers, Technology And Applications
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