SpaceX has successfully launched another set of 20 Eutelsat OneWeb broadband satellites into orbit aboard its Falcon 9 rocket. The mission, which lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Launch Complex 40, marked a significant milestone in the expansion of global internet connectivity.
SpaceX completed 100th launch of year 2024 with the launch of 20 Eutelsat OneWeb broadband satellites. Credit: SpaceX
The Falcon 9 rocket, sporting a reused first stage, ignited its nine Merlin engines at 6:40 PM EDT (22:40 UTC) on October 19. The vehicle soared into the night sky, shedding its boosters and payload fairing as it reached orbit. Approximately 45 minutes into the flight, the rocket's second stage deployed the 20 satellites into a 1,200 km (750-mile) sun-synchronous orbit.
This launch was the result of a partnership between Eutelsat, a leading global satellite operator, and OneWeb, a pioneering satellite internet company. The partnership aims to provide global broadband coverage, focusing on underserved communities and remote areas. With this launch, OneWeb's total constellation now stands at over 500 satellites, with plans to reach 648 satellites in the coming years.
SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket has proven itself as a reliable workhorse, with over 200 successful launches. The reusable first stage, which returned to Earth safely, will undergo refurbishment for future missions. "Today's launch demonstrates the strength of our partnership with OneWeb and Eutelsat," said SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell. "We're proud to support their mission to bridge the digital divide."
OneWeb's constellation will provide high-speed, low-latency internet services to businesses, governments, and individuals worldwide. The satellites will enable seamless connectivity, critical for remote work, education, healthcare, and emergency services. "We're thrilled to see our constellation growing," said OneWeb CEO Neil Masterson. "This launch brings us closer to achieving our vision of global connectivity."
Eutelsat's partnership with OneWeb enhances its global presence, expanding services to new markets and customers. "This partnership strengthens our position in the global satellite market," said Eutelsat CEO Rodolphe Belmer. "We're committed to delivering unparalleled broadband services."
The successful launch highlights the growing demand for satellite-based internet services. As the world becomes increasingly dependent on digital connectivity, partnerships like Eutelsat and OneWeb are poised to play a critical role in bridging the digital divide.
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