OneWeb successfully deploys 40 satellites launched with SpaceX

Low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications company OneWeb has confirmed the successful deployment and contact of 40 satellites launched by SpaceX.

The satellites were launched from from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, with lift-off taking place on 9 March. Neil Masterson, Chief Executive Officer of OneWeb, commented: “Today’s launch is an exciting milestone as we are now just one mission away from completing our Gen 1 constellation, which will activate global service in 2023.

“Now more than ever, OneWeb is dedicated to continuing the momentum we have garnered from the past 17 successful launches, to innovate alongside our trusted partners and deliver connectivity solutions at scale. Each launch is a group effort, and today’s success would not have been possible without the dedication of the entire launch team and our partners here in Florida.”

OneWeb’s satellites separated successfully from the rocket and were dispensed using three separation groups over a period of 40 minutes, with the last separation occurring one hour and 35 minutes after launch. Signal acquisition on all 40 satellites has been confirmed.

OneWeb aims to complete its first-generation (Gen 1) LEO satellite constellation and enable global coverage in 2023. OneWeb says it now has 582 satellites now in orbit and will complete its global footprint of the Gen 1 constellation with a launch scheduled for later this month with ISRO/NSIL.

The company has connectivity solutions active today across the globe and is bringing new areas online by partnering with leading providers including VEON, Orange, Galaxy Broadband, Paratus and Telespazio.