Future applications and potential

While these expeditions demonstrate specific connectivity use cases at sea, the potential for the satellite constellation to transform communications extends far beyond, from revolutionising disaster response efforts to telemedicine services and more. The business world stands to benefit significantly: airlines can offer uninterrupted in-flight connectivity, office buildings can establish secure private networks, trains can stay connected over long distances, and transport companies can maintain constant communication with ships at sea.

The satellite and user terminal technology represents a leap forward in our ability to connect and communicate globally. It opens possibilities for research, education and operations in areas previously inaccessible by terrestrial networks.

"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. This demonstration shows European technology is facilitating a world where distance is no longer a barrier to collaboration and progress.”

“Innovation and collaboration are at the core of what we do at Eutelsat Group. 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. Good luck to the teams and crews involved in this groundbreaking work!” said Sara Mugnaini, Manager of Advance Engineering and Technologies at Eutelsat Group.

"The UK Space Agency's support for the Sunrise Partnership underscores our commitment to advancing global connectivity services everywhere. It is a great example of how satellite technology is transforming how we live and work, including on the world’s vast oceans,” said Henny Sands, Head of Telecommunications at the UK Space Agency. “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. We are proud to support the UK ecosystem at the heart of this integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial satellite networks and we look forward to following both crews’ journeys.”

Organisations interested in exploring how this technology could enhance their operations are encouraged to get in touch: connectivity.esa.int/partnership-projects. As we continue to push the boundaries of space technology, initiatives like this demonstrate the tangible benefits that space exploration brings to life on Earth. By bridging the digital divide and enabling communication in even the most remote areas, we're not just connecting devices – we're connecting people, ideas and opportunities on a truly global scale.