Connectivity provider SES has successfully launched two satellites into orbit with the assistance of SpaceX. The two O3b mPower satellites reached orbit after being launched by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in the US.

This launch brings the total number of SES satellites in medium-Earth orbit to six, enhancing the company’s global connectivity services. The commercial service utilizing these satellites is expected to be launched in the second quarter of 2024. SES aims to deliver predictable low latency, flexibility, and reliable service availability through this new offering.

SES plans to have a total of 13 satellites in orbit for its O3b mPower commercial service. Additionally, the company recently announced its intention to add two Boeing-built satellites to the constellation.

With more than 70 satellites in different orbits, SES has a wide coverage area, providing high-performance video and data connectivity globally. The company received a €300m loan commitment from the European Investment Bank to launch three more satellites and expand its services to meet growing demands.

SES is also part of an open consortium working on the EU’s IRIS2 satellite constellation. This public-private project aims to improve broadband and connectivity services related to security and surveillance, with full operational capacity expected by 2027.

In other space news, Taiwanese manufacturer Foxconn has entered the space sector by launching two small satellites into lower-Earth orbit. The satellites were launched aboard a SpaceX rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base. SpaceX reported successful deployments of 86 out of the 90 payloads on this mission.

Both SES and Foxconn’s moves showcase the growing importance of the space sector, with companies exploring new opportunities for satellite-based services and technological advancements, aiming to meet the ever-increasing demand for connectivity and data services worldwide.