Tuesday, August 13, 2024 Viasat, a global powerhouse in satellite communications, has announced the successful launch of the Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base. This mission, spearheaded by Space Norway’s subsidiary Heosat, marks a significant milestone as it becomes the world’s first highly elliptical orbit (HEO) mission to carry a broadband commercial service payload. The mission involves the deployment of two satellites, ASBM-1 and ASBM-2, into highly elliptical orbits.
These satellites will host the GX10A and GX10B Ka-band payloads, enabling Viasat to extend its high-speed global network with dedicated coverage for the Arctic region. Following their deployment, the satellites will be positioned into their designated orbits, where they will undergo technical testing and integration. The GX10A and GX10B payloads are slated to begin service between early and mid-2025, bringing enhanced connectivity to a region with rapidly growing demand.
As the Arctic becomes increasingly important for governments, commercial mobility customers, and scientific research, Viasat’s new payloads will significantly expand its coverage area, bolstering the company’s global network with specialized capacity for the Arctic. In addition to the ASBM mission, Viasat is ramping up its high-speed broadband capabilities with five new Ka-band satellites currently under construction. These satellites are expected to enter service over the next few years, further enhancing Viasat’s ability to meet the evolving needs of government and commercial mobility customers worldwide.
Mark Dickinson, Head of Space Systems, Viasat, said: “We would like to thank Space Norway and our project partners for their continued hard work, collaboration, and vision to make this project a reality. I would also like to thank our highly skilled experts. They will now focus on bringing these payloads into service and creating the flexibility, coverage, and connectivity our customers need – wherever they operate.
” Space Norway Program Director, Kjell-Ove Skare, said : “With the successful launch of the ASBM satellites we are a major step closer to providing broadband to civilian, government and military users in the Arctic – which is the primary reason for this mission. This common goal has been the driving factor for Viasat, as well as for all parties involved in the ASBM program. It has truly been an excellent collaborative effort.
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