by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 18, 2024
SpaceX successfully launched the SES O3b mPOWER mission on Tuesday afternoon, delivering two advanced communications satellites into medium Earth orbit (MEO). Liftoff occurred at 5:26 p.m. ET from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
The mission carried the O3b mPOWER 7 and 8 satellites, part of SES's next-generation communications constellation designed to provide high-throughput and low-latency connectivity worldwide. These satellites will join the existing O3b mPOWER fleet, currently operating approximately 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles) above the Earth.
Tuesday's launch marked the first flight for the Falcon 9 rocket's first-stage booster. Following stage separation, the booster successfully landed on the drone ship "Just Read the Instructions," stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.
SES's O3b mPOWER network aims to deliver reliable, high-speed internet access across sectors including maritime, aviation, telecommunications, and government. The system is particularly focused on enhancing connectivity for underserved and remote regions globally.
With the successful deployment of these two satellites, the O3b mPOWER constellation now consists of eight satellites, with more launches planned to further expand its coverage and capacity. SES expects the network to begin full commercial operations in early 2025.
"The O3b mPOWER system represents a significant advancement in global connectivity, enabling faster and more efficient communications for communities and businesses worldwide," SES said in a statement.
This launch underscores SpaceX's continued role in enabling critical satellite deployments, furthering its record for reliability and reusability.
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