The skies just got more crowded (in the best way possible)! 🛰️ Eutelsat, the world’s third-largest satellite operator, blasted off 20 new satellites into low Earth orbit this weekend using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. This marks its first major move since merging with UK-based OneWeb last year — a collab that’s shaking up global connectivity. 🚀
The launch from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base is part of Eutelsat’s plan to expand its fleet to over 600 satellites, providing high-speed internet and telecom services worldwide. CEO Eva Berneke called it a 'key step' in integrating satellite tech into mainstream telecom ecosystems. Think of it like adding a turbo boost to your Wi-Fi, but for entire countries. 🌐
With big-name clients like Orange and Telstra, plus talks underway with AT&T, Eutelsat is eyeing markets in India and Saudi Arabia. And here’s the kicker: They’re also in talks to bring Netflix-in-the-sky 🍿✈️ by partnering with airlines for in-flight internet. Revenue could take off as early as 2025!
Why care? Telecoms are the 'big boys' of connectivity, as Berneke puts it, but satellites? They’re the nimble innovators bridging gaps in remote areas and beyond. With a $4 billion order backlog, this merger is proving that space isn’t just for astronauts anymore — it’s for streamers, travelers, and TikTokers too. 💫
