Reprogrammable Eutelsat Quantum satellite launched

Developed under an ESA Partnership Project with manufacturer Airbus and satellite operator Eutelsat, the flexible software-defined satellite was launched on board an Ariane 5 on 30 July from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana. It has now reached geostationary orbit around 36,000km above Earth.

The satellite will be used by governments and in mobility and data markets and will remain in geostationary orbit for its 15-year lifespan, before being placed in a graveyard orbit away from Earth to minimise risk to other satellites.

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According to the ESA, Eutelsat Quantum’s beams can be redirected to move in ‘almost real time’ to provide information to passengers on board moving ships, planes, trucks and other land-based transport. The beams can also be adjusted to deliver more data when demand increases, and can characterise rogue emissions allowing for response to accidental interference or intentional jamming.