Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Telefonica taps Eutelsat KA-SAT for Internet by satellite in Europe


In a recently-announced agreement, Telefonica Global Solutions will be using Eutelsat Communications' KA-SAT satellite to deliver Internet by satellite broadband services to European carriers.

KA-SAT will enable Telefonica to offer a new selection of Internet by satellite services. The new solutions can match the reliability and prices of existing terrestrial broadband services in Europe.

In addition, KA-SAT allows Telefonica to reach rural areas or urban belts that usually lie outside the coverage of land-based networks. The Company's Internet by satellite broadband services can also serve as fully diversified backup solutions for areas that do have access to terrestrial networks.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

China Mobile, Thuraya form new mobile satellite phone business


A joint announcement from China Mobile Satellite Communication Group Ltd., China Telecom Satellite Communications Co Ltd., and Thuraya Telecommunications Co. revealed that the three partners have successfully debuted a new business focusing on mobile satellite phones.

China Mobile is the only company licensed to operate in the Yangtze River Delta Region. As part of an exclusive partnership agreement, China Mobile will introduce and exclusively offer Thuraya's mobile satellite communications devices and services to enterprise consumers in China.

In return, UAE-based satellite mobile telecom operator Thuraya will extend technical and marketing support to China Mobile customers.

China Mobile Satellite Communication Group will introduce the the first batch of Thuraya satellite phones to the enterprise market in March 2013.

The maritime industry in China operates a million fishing boats. It is considered to be the biggest target market of mobile satellite phone services.

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Monday, December 17, 2012

Thuraya partners with SoftBank Mobile for satellite network services in Japan


A joint announcement by Thuraya Telecommunications and SoftBank Mobile revealed that the two companies have formed a partnership to offer mobile satellite communications services to business, enterprise, and consumer subscribers in Japan. The new partners will leverage Thuraya’s network of communications satellites for their aforementioned services.

Softbank Mobile has received approval to distribute Thuraya’s satellite network services in Japan. The distribution channels of the Japanese telecommunications company will begin offering Thuraya’s handsets and airtime services starting February 2013. Both companies will also develop a new Thuraya handset with unique features; SoftBank Mobile will be the exclusive distributor of the new handset.

The new partnership provides SoftBank users with access to Thuraya’s communications satellite network in areas that cannot be reached by terrestrial networks due to remote rough terrain or natural disasters. The satellite communications services extended by Thuraya will allow individual and enterprise consumers to enjoy clear communications at any time and anywhere in Japan and its surrounding maritime areas.

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Monday, December 10, 2012

Mobile OnAir, Internet OnAir will join Dassault Falcon 7X linefit options in 2014


OnAir recently announced that its Mobile OnAir and Internet OnAir in-flight connectivity services will become a linefit option for all Falcon 7X business jets that Dassault Aviation will build from 2014 onwards.

OnAir will leverage the GSMConneX airborne system to provide connectivity for its in-flight services. Designed and produced by TriaGnoSys, GSMConneX can link up with any satellite communications system compatible with the SwiftBroadband network. The system's small size, light weight, and unrestricted mounting options make installation extremely easy while ensuring the Falcon 7X receives the most comprehensive commercially-available hardware for in-flight connectivity.

Mobile OnAir allows owners, passengers, and crew of business jets to use their mobile phones to surf the Internet, place and receive calls, send and receive SMS, and access their email. Internet OnAir, on the other hand, creates a Wi-Fi network in the aircraft. Any Wi-Fi device will be able to access the Internet using the network.

The Falcon 7X is the premier business jet of Dassault Aviation.

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Thursday, December 6, 2012

SES signs new capacity deal with Turkish broadcaster covering sub-Saharan Africa


This Wednesday, SES announced that it signed a new satellite capacity deal with Türkiye Radyo ve Televizyon Kurumu (TRT,) a public broadcaster based in Turkey, to provide the Turkish company's programs to customers in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Company's SES-5 satellite will deliver TRT's FTA digital channel TRT Turk and its radio channel Turkiyenin Sesi Radyosu (TRS) to the region between Europe and Africa. The SES platform is located at the 5 degrees East orbital slot, and it will provide flexible broadcasting operations through its Ka-band uplink capabilities.

TRT leverages another SES satellite at the prime orbital position 19.2 degrees East to broadcast its programs to audiences Western Europe.

Ibrahim Sahin, the General Manager for TRT, stated that the Turkish broadcaster could reach critical audiences and important markets outside Turkey thanks to the expertise and global satellite fleet extended by SES. The new agreement and capacity provided by SES-5 will allow TRT to directly deliver premium Turkish news, culture, and entertainment programs to audiences in sub-Saharan Africa.

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Monday, November 26, 2012

SES provides satellite broadband services to ESA for ARTES initiative


Last week, SES announced that its SES Broadband Services will be providing satellite broadband services to the participants of the ARTES (Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems) initiative of the European Space Agency (ESA.)

The ESA has set its sights on boosting the competititveness of the European satellite industry. Its ARTES initiative will promote satellite functions and services in aviation, broadcasting, data relay, multimedia and mobile communications, and search and rescue operations. These promotions will encourage European companies to create new satellite broadband applications.

To support this ESA initiative, SES Broadband Services will provide participating companies with preferential rates for its satellite broadband services on two satellites: The Astra-3B platform, which serves Europe and the Middle East, and the Astra-4A satellite, which covers sub-Saharan Africa.

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Sunday, November 18, 2012

Newtec satellite modem honored by Satellite Markets and Research Vision Awards

The Satellite Markets and Research Vision Awards recently gave its Most Innovative Product Award to the new generation Newtec MDM6000 Satellite Modem for setting a new world speed record earlier this 2012 using S2 Extensions-based technologies.

Slava Frayter, VP for Newtec Americas, accepted the award on behalf of the Company at the SMRV Awards reception during SATCON 2012 at New York City on November 14, 2012.


The newest addition to the Newtec modem portfolio, the MDM6000 Satellite Modem debuted back in September 2012. It can handle all IP applications and any speeds, and supports data rates of up to 380Mbps in each direction.

In addition to being compatible with the upcoming S2 Extensions, the MDM6000 modem also fully complies with the DVB-S2 standard. This is because Newtec went ahead and gathered other DVB-members to form a team that defined and updated the DVB-S2 standard.

The Newtec-led team effort created smaller roll-offs, advanced filtering, a wider array of improved MODCODs, FEC upgrades, 72 Mbaud wideband support, and other new DVB-standard satellite transmission technologies that are used by the MDM6000 Satellite Modem. These new efficiency technologies are up to 20% better compared to DVB-S2 when enhancing the satellite link in DTH networks and 64 percent to other professional applications. These gains are greater than the ones achieved by currently-available proprietary systems.


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Wednesday, November 7, 2012

O3b Networks, Harris CapRock form strategic satellite communications alliance


A strategic marketing alliance will be formed by O3b Networks and Harris CapRock Communications. The two companies will be focusing on an array of ultra high-speed, low latency, exploration, and production capabilities for satellite communications services.

Harris CapRock will also add O3bEnergy to its portfolio of satellite services for the energy market. The O3b solution has the advantages of fiber broadband connectivity without the disadvantages of huge upfront CAPEX investments, outage concerns, immobility, and lengthy ramp-up times. O3bEnergy is also easy to integrated into existing enterprise systems and operational budgets.

With O3bEnergy, oil and gas companies and systems integrators will be able to enjoy latencies under 150 milliseconds, unlimited and affordable bandwidth, and big operational savings. The high capacity, low latency satellite offering can enable real-time seismic surveys of oil reserves beneath the ocean floor thanks to its speedy data transfers of up to 2 Terabytes per day.

Harris CapRock and O3b Networks have teamed up earlier to boost the Internet experience aboard Oasis of the Seas. The flagship of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and the largest cruise ship in the world is one of the many ships in the the maritime service that derives satellite Internet connectivity from O3b’s Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite fleet with equipment integrated by Harris CapRock.

O3bEnergy will enter commercial service in the third quarter of 2013. The newest addition to Harris CapRock's satellite communications portfolio is targeted at oil and gas companies and systems integrators who operate oil and gas rigs and seismic survey ships in the Gulf of Mexico, Brazil, Angola, Asia and other key maritime regions.

Monday, November 5, 2012

AfricaCom 2012 will include Australian independent satellite company

The African digital-world’s largest event will be attended by rising Australian independent satellite communications company NewSat Ltd. Now on its 15th year, AfricaCom 2012 brings together key organizations and executives from the ICT, media, and telecom sectors at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in South Africa, from November 13 to November 15.



Over 7,000 delegates are expected to attend the summit, which will include over 200 speakers delivering panel discussions, interactive workshops, lectures, and seminars together with an expanded exhibition where companies will showcase their latest technologies and applications.

With the rise of more powerful devices such as tablets and smartphones, the digital ecosystem is changing at a fast pace. AfricaCom 2012 hopes to address the issues facing the digital industry, while focusing on this year’s theme, "Reaching the Next Frontier of Growth". Businessmen are encouraged to join the Entrepreneurs Hub focusing on business development in the continent.

NewSat Ltd is optimistic that the summit will be the perfect platform to showcase its Jabiru Satellite Program: a fleet of high-powered Ka band satellites which will deliver additional bandwidth, as well as flexible payloads to the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Over the last years, demand for satellite capacity has surged especially in Africa, where the technology can meet specific needs like satellite broadband service in remote regions. Jabiru 1, slated for a 2014 launch, will become Australia’s first independently-owned commercial satellite, and will deliver new capacity over Africa crucial for other wireless technologies and digital services to grow.

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Monday, October 29, 2012

Value-added services, new satellite drive revenue growth for Eutelsat

Eutelsat reported that its revenues for the first quarter of 2012-2013 have increased by 6.5 percent. Value-added services grew by 43.7 percent, while video applications and capacity added in 2011 and 2012 increased by 9.1 percent. The European fixed satellite services (FSS) operator has earned 314.4 million euros ($406.3 million) so far.

According to Eutelsat, limited capacity in regions of highest demand caused multi-usage to drop by 5.8 percent. The Company responded by acquiring the GE-23 satellite operated by GE-Satellite. Renamed as Eutelsat 172A, the new satellite will expand Eutelsat's coverage of these high-demand areas.

According to Michel de Rosen, CEO of Eutelsat, the FSS operator is now focusing on the November 2012 launch of the Eutelsat 21B satellite, and the December launch of the Eutelsat 70B satellite. Both satellites will significantly increase capacity for markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, where Data Services and Multi-usage remain in high demand.

In the meantime, Eutelsat adjusted its revenue outlook after acquiring Eutelsat 172A. The FSS operator is aiming to generate top-line growth of between 5 and 6 percent for the current fiscal year. By the time June 2015 arrives, it plans to have achieved a three-year compound annual growth of between 6 and 7 percent.


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Wednesday, October 24, 2012

ViaSat wins deal with US government for airborne satellite broadband services


ViaSat Inc. will be providing satellite broadband services in support of enroute military aircraft as part of its multi-million dollar contract with the US government. The Company will provide an all-IP service plan that allows NIPR, SIPR, ViaSat's Yonder commercial satellite Internet, and VoIP and VTC sessions during transcontinental and transoceanic flights.

The initial one-year agreement between ViaSat and the US government can be renewed for multiple years. It also provides options for the US government to add other aircraft to the satellite broadband service deal, as well as to request additional missions and supplemental service from ViaSat to supply.

ViaSat will also provide tiered service plans for senior leadership, VIP, and other broadband requirements. Its service plans cover a range of networking and performance levels, and most of them complemented their high-priority regional services with of higher priority.

ViaSat will use its proprietary ArcLight technology for the airborne and terrestrial satellite terminals that it will supply, install, and support on US aircraft. ArcLight terminals have already served more than 500,000 flight hours on over 300 government-operated aircraft.

The first military organization to use ViaSat's patented ArcLight technology was the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM.) Thanks to the advanced ViaSat terminals, the USSOCOM's fleet of C-130 aircraft not only gained a Ku-band communications network, but they also became the first in a line of US military aircraft that could perform advanced ISR missions using ultra-small antennas with apertures smaller than 12 inches in diameter.

There are now more than 1,750 ViaSat mobile broadband installations. The satellite communications terminals accomplish various government missions and accomplish numerous commercial applications for customers in the general aviation, maritime, and high-speed rail industries.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

KCET and Link TV merging

One of California’s major community TV networks announced a merger with Link TV, an open broadcast channel operated by Link Media. According to KCET CEO Al Jerome, the development will bring together the two companies to form KCETLink. Al Jerome will become Chief Executive of the new entity while Link President, Paul S. Mason will be the Chief Strategy Officer.

KCET has long been a flagship of PBS Network in the Los Angeles Area. The merger however, will create, according to the press release “a new independent public transmedia company that acquires, produces and distributes provocative global programming targeted to a national audience across multiple media platforms”. It will also increase the reach of the network to almost 33 million homes across the country.

Jerome also expressed his high-expectations for the new media outlet to thrive in a the budding digital ave thanks to the combined resources. Since KCET left PBS, the network had been struggling with declining viewership. Link TV’s technology will help the outlet expand its reach across the nation, and create new business opportunities.

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Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Inmarsat showing off satellite communications solutions at UAE showcase


Inmarsat will show off its ever-expanding portfolio of business voice and data services at the upcoming Gulfcomms event in Dubai, UAE. Its preview will include future commercial satellite services that will leverage Inmarsat's next-generation Global Xpress Ka-band satellite network.

The Company will display both its wide array of voice and data services, and its equally diverse assembly of portable, fixed, and vehicular terminals, on a daily basis at Gulfcomm.

In addition, Inmarsat will present an overview of the path preceding the deployment of its Global Xpress satellite system. It will also discuss how it will merge its L-band services with the new GX-enabled Ka-band satellite services.

The Alphasat I-XL L-band satellite will be part of Inmarsat's display. The planned Inmarsat satellite will improve service outreach and throughput of the Company's L-band services across Middle East and Africa, which will in turn speed up streaming performance and refresh capacity.

Furthermore, Inmarsat will also debut an improved BGAN streaming rate service. Set for commercial distribution in 2013, the new service will deliver higher streaming rates for customers.

Inmarsat is performing changes to its L-band portfolio in preparation for its future Ka-band services, which will be delivered by its planned Global Xpress satellite network. The GX-enabled services will cover the EMEA region in 2013 and go global before 2014 is out.

Global Xpress will be the first Ka-band network that can support support mobile and fixed communication services on a global basis. Its exceptional speeds will raise the measuring bar for Virtual Private Networks, Internet Protocol, rural cellular backhaul, and other applications.

A wide variety of sectors benefit from the voice, satellite broadband, and M2M (Machine-to-Machine) solutions that the Company offers. Inmarsat assures its customers of a 99.9% network reliability thanks to its global satellite communications network, which is considered to be one of the most reliable in the world.


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Thursday, October 11, 2012

Orbcomm prototype deorbits, falls to Earth

After an anomaly during the October 7 launch where one of the engines of the SpaceX Falco 9 failed to work, Orbcomm’s prototype satellite, the OG2, has been declared a total loss. The announcement came after the spacecraft failed to reach its designated International Space Station (ISS) safety gate for the second burn. As a result the OG2 found itself in a lower orbit. 

Orbcomm engineers studied plans to use the satellite’s propulsion mechanism to push the vessel into its intended orbit. However, the plans for a second burn was scrapped due to safety reasons. Many attribute the failure to the satellite being relegated to a secondary payload. Had it been the primary payload on the Space X mission, it would have reached its desired orbit. 

Orbcomm officials explained that despite the loss of the OG2, the vessel’s critical systems were tested and worked perfectly as it was designed. The telemetry and command capability of the satellite was also established, and various communications payloads of the OG2 were verified by engineers to have worked. 

Despite the setback, the company will still work with SpaceX for future launches of its second-generation satellites. Orbcomm remains confident in the American space transport company.

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Tuesday, October 9, 2012

ViaSat weans off US defense contracts, switches to satellite Internet services

Faced with a “fiscal cliff” that threatens to cut off its main source of revenue -its many lucrative defense contracts with the U.S. government,- ViaSat Inc. is placing its bets on its growing satellite Internet services.

If U.S. lawmakers are unable to agree on a method to make up for the budget deficit, they will implement a series of automatic tax hikes and cuts in government spending in 2013. The "fiscal cliff" will save the government some $600 billion, and a good amount of that will come out of contracts with companies like ViaSat.


It’s an uphill battle for the satellite communications provider. Defense contracts with the U.S. government currently take up 45% of Viasat’s revenue. Worse, company shares have yet to recover from the drubbing they received when ViaSat first launched its Exede Internet-by-satellite service back in January.


Eight months ago, the value of ViaSat’s stock hovered near $50. The company currently trades around $35 a share.

According to Timothy Quillin, an analyst for Stephens, Inc., investors have expressed their disappointment in the slow pace of subscriber growth in ViaSat’s satellite services segment, especially its Exede service.

Still, ViaSat remains positive that it made the right choice in rolling out Exede. According to the Company, it had added 20,000 new subscribers during the first quarter of 2012, and 40 percent of them had switched to the high-speed Exede satellite Internet service.

ViaSat further revealed that its satellite services segment received 31% more orders during the same quarter. Chief Executive Mark Dankberg said that one particular contract during the first quarter was almost equal to the normal order flow.

Mr. Dankberg co-founded ViaSat in 1986. According to him, the home Internet service will continue to contribute more and more revenue during the next few years.

He also announced that ViaSat will trim down its government sales from 45% down to 35% within five years in order to better diversify company revenue. Mr. Dankberg also took care to clarify that the Company’s government segment will not grow smaller. “It will be that it doesn't grow as fast as other parts of our business grow," he explained.

Investors are concerned that ViaSat is taking too much time in its migration. Non-government sales of satellite equipment and services currently take up a quarter of the Company’s sales. This includes all revenue from its Exede Internet-by-satellite service.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Beam Communications: Japan approves sale of Inmarsat SATCOM products


According to Beam Communications Pty Ltd., all of its Inmarsat satellite communications products have received Japanese Type Approval and can now be sold in the Japanese market.

The Japanese regulatory environment requires all equipment that emits Radio Frequency (RF) energy must undergo stringent testing. If they pass the test, they will be granted Japanese Type Approval, which is also known as “Giteki” or “Ninsho” certification.

In addition, those same equipment must be certified for electrical safety. Only those which bear a “PSE” mark will be permitted in the Japanese market.



Among the Inmarsat products offered by Beam which were now cleared for sale in Japan are the IsatDock Docking Stations used for the IsatPhone Pro Satellite Handset, and the Terra 400/800 and Oceana 400/800 terminals, which support the Inmarsat FleetPhone and LinkPhone SATCOM services.

The Inmarsat IsatPhone Pro and GSPS satellite communications services have recently debuted in Japan. Now that they have received official Japanese Type Approval, Beam can actively hawk and sell them to Japanese customers.

JSAT MOBILE Communications Inc., Japan Digital Corporation, and SatCom Global will be among the Japanese companies that will sell the certified Inmarsat satellite communications terminals on behalf of Beam. The aforementioned companies are strategic Inmarsat partners.


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Thursday, September 27, 2012

Winegard provides VSAT antennas for DTS SatCom box, oil field operator


Very small aperture terminal (VSAT) manufacturer Winegard Co. will provide more than 200 customized portable VSAT units to Data Technology Solutions (DTS.) DTS will integrate the Winegard compact satellite communications terminals into its new SatCom Box on behalf of one of the largest oil field services companies in the U.S.

Winegard's customized VSAT systems provide data, voice, and video communications services for oil field service companies on both coasts of the United States as well as the Gulf of Mexico. A VSAT network allows the headquarters of DST's customer to directly stay in contact with its many, widespread oil field operations without having to go through a single terrestrial station.


Winegard entered a multi-year contract with DTS for the former's Small Footprint VSAT system. The Winegard SatCom terminal's compact 2-way antenna can fit inside its custom-fabricated skid, making transportation and integration easy.

DTS customizes their SatCom Box product according to their customer's specific needs. It will integrate the Winegard VSAT's controller and antenna mount into a patent pending SatCom Box.

According to Mike Guidroz, President of DTS, Winegard was chosen because of its innovative and reliable antenna designs, the speed at which those same antenna can be customized according to the user's needs, and the rugged construction of its VSAT units.

Winegard was able to respond in weeks or even days when presented with a request for a specific antenna, compared to competitors which reported took months to do the same. “Speed to deliver is a key factor for our customers,” Mr. Guidroz said.

"The SatCom Box has set a new standard in the industry,” said Jon Manley, Director of Engineering for Winegard. He added that Winegard proudly supplied its premier VSAT antennas to DTS for integration into the latter company's SatCom Box.

Winegard's extensively-engineered and tested satellite antenna lead the industry when it comes to performance, quality, and usability. The Company's VSAT systems is compatible with HughesNet, iDirect, Gilat, and ViaSat modems, allowing it to provide high-quality Internet on satellite and other SATCOM services.

Winegard took pains to reduce total cost of ownership through its product's single-button operation. Its VSAT system can be set up without any need for additional equipment or knowledge, and it also automatically acquires a satellite uplink, all in less than three minutes.

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Thursday, September 13, 2012

Boeing receives approval for COMSATCOM Services Acquisition Program


The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) and General Services Administration (GSA) have authorized Boeing Commercial Satellite Services to act as a service provider of the Future COMSATCOM Services Acquisition program.

Boeing is now authorized to provide assorted satellite communications services to U.S. government customers. This including both fixed and mobile transponded and subscription services.

Boeing offers subscription agreements on military-unique services like UHF and Yahsat's military Ka-band, Ku-band and Ka-band commercial services from the Inmarsat-5 satellite, and L-band services from Inmarsat and Thuraya. These services can be secured through a GSA Schedule 70 contract with Boeing.

According to Craig Cooning, CEO of Boeing Satellite Systems International, the COMSATCOM program is another opportunity for Boeing to provide quality satellite communication services to its customers.

"Boeing continues to support the government's increasing need for satellite communications bandwidth," Mr. Cooning said.


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Monday, September 10, 2012

Hitron debuts HCMS D-SNG satellite-link monitor-control software


A recent announcement made by Hiltron Communications introduced their brand new HMCS D-SNG satellite-link monitor and control software. The latest member of the Hiltron product portfolio, HMCS is a cost-efficient system designed to work with the newest generation of high-definition (HD) D-SNG media vehicles.

HMCS provides full control of professional satellite systems such as the Ericsson Voyager II contribution encoders. It employs an intuitive graphical user interface and helpfully color-coded alarm message system. It is written in Java and is compatible with Linux, Apple OSX, and Microsoft Windows (XP, 2007, Server 2003/2008) operating systems.

HMCS is completely compatible with the HSACU D-SNG controller that Hiltron introduced only a short while ago.

Hiltron's newest satellite system control software uses an integral database that records and stores specific satellite transponder and encoding profiles. HMCS can also control whatever satellite communications and video equipment that the customer needs to use.

HMCS supports a huge selection of drivers for modulators, encoders, integrated receiver decoders (IRDs,) redundancy controllers, and spectrum analysers. Hiltron's new software also comes with a basic driver for the Hiltron HSACU antenna control unit, and customers can request a different driver.

Monday, September 3, 2012

Shapiro talks about NewSat's Year End results

Adam Shapiro, Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) of NewSat, which is to date, Australia’s largest satellite communications provider, spoke to Boardroom Radio about the company’s 2012 Year End results, NewSat’s best financial result to date, as a corporate office primarily responsible for managing the financial risks of the corporation.

Shapiro discusses NewSat’s financial and operational highlights, including a 29% increase in revenue, a positive EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization) up 111% and 306 new teleport business contracts, or agreements entered into voluntarily by NewSat and other parties with the intention of creating a legal obligation, which may have elements in writing, although contacts can be made orally. He also provided an outlook for shareholders, or individuals or institutions (including corporations) that legally owns any part of a share of stock in a public or private corporation. NewSat continues to win new business through contacts both from: teleports (telecommunications ports), a satellite ground station with multiple parabolic antennas (i.e. an antenna farm) that functions as a hub connecting a satellite or geocentric orbital network with a terrestrial telecommunications network; and Jabiru, Australia’s first independently owned satellite operator to manage a fleet of commercial Ku band and Ka band satellites  ~US$380 million secured in funding and a strong sales pipeline.

See: NewSat's Satellite Internet Services

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

NewSat and the 2012 APSCC Satellite Conference and Exhibition by Brandon Lee

The APSCC 2012 Satellite Conference & Exhibition is an international gathering for the executives in the satellite and the space-related industries held at the COEX Convention Centre, Seoul Special City, South Korea, September 5-27.

The 15th installment to the flagship event of the APSCC is back in Seoul, the capital and largest metropolis of South Korea, a sovereign state in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula, and is a key opportunity to discuss strategic partnerships and generate new business opportunities.

David Ball, Chief Technology/Technical Officer (CTO) of NewSat, to date, Australia’s largest satellite communications provider, is joining the other satellite operators on the “Leading the Satellite Evolution” panel, discussing the following:

First, they want to know where in the continent of Asia, the world’s largest and most populous continent, located primarily in the eastern and northern hemispheres, in which regions, or for which types of capacity is the issue of oversupply or growing demand most important. They also want to know the pricing trends expected. Second, they want to know how will the competitive dynamic between global and regional operators play out. Third, they want to see know if partnerships are the most effective route for growing regional operator supply. Fourth, they are seeing the bright spots and trouble spots for satellite operators in Asia in the next few years. Lastly, they want to know how will new the high throughput satellites (HTS), a classification for communications satellites that provide at least twice, though usually by a factor of 20 or more, the total throughput of a classic FSS satellite for the same amount of allocated orbital spectrum thus significantly reducing cost-per-bit, affect the market in Asia.

Ball is in an executive-level position in NewSat focusing on scientific and technological issues within an organization; that is, satellite communications/communications satellite (COMSAT), an artificial satellite sent to space for the purpose of telecommunications.

NewSat, although located in the “Commonwealth of Australia,” a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, provides coverage to 75% of the Earth’s surface, through its satellites, VSAT, and teleports--a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) is a two-way satellite ground station or a stabilized maritime VSAT antenna with a dish antenna that is smaller than three meters, while a telecommunication port, or more commonly, teleport, is a satellite ground station with multiple parabolic antennas (i.e., an antenna farm) that functions as a hub connecting a satellite or geocentric orbital network with a terrestrial telecommunications network.  

See: Astrium provides for NewSat under Lockheed Martin Contract

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Asian satellite conferences solidifies region's leadership in the industry

The China Satellite Conference 2012 is one of the most anticipated events of the satellite industry in the Asia Pacific Region. In recent years, Asia itself, has emerged as the leading region when its comes to satellite communications technology, and the positive growth will continue with increased demand for direct-to-home services in rising economic powerhouses like India, the Middle East, and even Southeast Asia. 



This year, the China Satellite Conference will be held at the Hotel Nikko New Century in Beijing, from the 19th of September to the 21st. The three-day event is expected to draw not just key organizations from Asia, but also international operators. Attendees will get the chance to meet with suppliers, hardware manufacturers, engineers, satellite service providers and operators, along with business leaders and Chinese policy makers.

The following week, South Korea will be host to the annual Asia-Pacific Satellite Communications Council Conference & Exhibition, or the APSCC 2012. From September 25 to 27, delegates will converge at the COEX Convention Centre in the capital Seoul, to discuss Asia's leading position in the industry. 



A special panel discussion, entitled "Leading The Satellite Evolution", will be led by key leaders from satellite operators. The forum will look into the expected pricing trends in Asia, the specific demand in specific Asian regions, how partnerships are affecting regional operators supplies, and the emerging technologies as well as challenges faced by the satellite sector in general. 

Both events emphasize Asia as the forefront of collaboration initiatives with satellite operators from across the globe. At the same time, the event brings to light important issues which satellite communications companies have to resolve, including the delivery of smarter technologies to a region with growing demand.

No single player can meet all of the demand, and the conferences in China and South Korea will be a key opportunity for operators to discuss business strategies and potential joint ventures. 

Done reading? You might also want to take a look at the events in Europe. The IBC 2012 in Amsterdam will draw thousands of delegates from the electronic media and entertainment content industry. 


Tuesday, August 21, 2012

NewSat and the 2012 APSCC Satellite Conference & Exhibition

The APSCC 2012 Satellite Conference & Exhibition is an international gathering for the executives in the satellite and the space-related industries held at the COEX Convention Centre, Seoul Special City, South Korea, September 5-27.

The 15th installment to the flagship event of the APSCC is back in Seoul, the capital and largest metropolis of South Korea, a sovereign state in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula, and is a key opportunity to discuss strategic partnerships and generate new business opportunities.

David Ball, Chief Technology/Technical Officer (CTO) of NewSat, to date, Australia’s largest satellite communications provider, is joining the other satellite operators on the “Leading the Satellite Evolution” panel, discussing the following:

First, they want to know where in the continent of Asia, the world’s largest and most populous continent, located primarily in the eastern and northern hemispheres, in which regions, or for which types of capacity is the issue of oversupply or growing demand most important. They also want to know the pricing trends expected. Second, they want to know how will the competitive dynamic between global and regional operators play out. Third, they want to see know if partnerships are the most effective route for growing regional operator supply. Fourth, they are seeing the bright spots and trouble spots for satellite operators in Asia in the next few years. Lastly, they want to know how will new the high throughput satellites (HTS), a classification for communications satellites that provide at least twice, though usually by a factor of 20 or more, the total throughput of a classic FSS satellite for the same amount of allocated orbital spectrum thus significantly reducing cost-per-bit, affect the market in Asia.

Ball is in an executive-level position in NewSat focusing on scientific and technological issues within an organization; that is, satellite communications/communications satellite (COMSAT), an artificial satellite sent to space for the purpose of telecommunications.

NewSat, although located in the “Commonwealth of Australia,” a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, provides coverage to 75% of the Earth’s surface, through its satellites, VSAT, and teleports--a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) is a two-way satellite ground station or a stabilized maritime VSAT antenna with a dish antenna that is smaller than three meters, while a telecommunication port, or more commonly, teleport, is a satellite ground station with multiple parabolic antennas (i.e., an antenna farm) that functions as a hub connecting a satellite or geocentric orbital network with a terrestrial telecommunications network.

See: Astrium provides for NewSat under Lockheed Martin

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Norsat: A good, good, second quarter


Norsat International reported positive financial results for the second quarter. According to the CEO of the Canadian satellite communications company, its second quarter revenue, gross profit dollars, EBITDA and net earnings all experienced positive results thanks to the excellent performance of its three business units: Sinclair Technologies, Satellite Solutions, and Microwave Products.

“Our financial results continued to strengthen in the second quarter of 2012," said Dr. Amiee Chan, Norsat’s President and CEO. According to her, the revenue growth in Sinclair Technologies and  Microwave Products drove the company's improved performance. “This represents our 23nd straight quarter of positive EBITDA," Dr. Chan said.

Dr. Chan went on to report that Norsat's Sinclair division continued to perform above historical norms. Continuous demand from the public safety and transportation markets constantly drove sales across Sinclair's diverse product lines, especially for satellite antenna and RF conditioning products.

Norsat's Microwave Products segment also made significant gains during the second quarter. According to Dr. Chan, there is an increasing demand for products such as Norsat's customized Ka-band receivers. In particular, a customer requested products that can be used for airborne applications. And Dr. Chan was pleased to say Norsat was able to tap a new market by fulfilling that request.

In addition, Norsat's custom-designed dual Ku-band and X-band portable satellite communications terminals received Final Acceptance from NATO Communications and Information Agency. “A highlight of the quarter was successfully meeting NATO’s stringent in-field testing criteria for our custom-designed dual Ku and X-band portable satellite terminals," Dr. Chan announced. "Having gained Final Acceptance from our customer, we were able to recognize revenues on our contract during the period.”

Other achievements of note were the release of a Satellite Locator application for iPhone and Norsat’s cutting-edge video streaming technologies. The latter was used in tandem with Ku-band portable satellite terminals to broadcast live footage of U.S. President Obama’s surprise visit and address to U.S. service members in Bagram, Afghanistan on May 1, 2012.

Dr. Chan said that Norsat will further diversify its customer base by providing new products and services to the military, commercial, resource, transportation, and public safety markets. The Norsat Power Solutions business unit is a move in that direction, while the existing Satellite Solutions segment is already considering numerous proposals to better whet the appetite of a growing number of customers who require unique satellite communications needs.



SkyVision will provide VPN, satellite services to Broadlink telecom


Telecom / infrastructure company Broadlink signed a contract with SkyVision Networks for the latter to provide Virtual Private Network (VPN) and Internet connectivity services to Broadlink's South African enterprise customers.

SkyVision made the announcement on Aug. 15. Specializing in hybrid connectivity, SkyVision will provide Broadlink with end-to-end business connectivity through the use of VSAT services.

“Broadlink has made great strides in the South African business market," Broadlink Managing Director Mike Brown said. "However, we have seen an increased demand from our customers for communication solutions catering to business sites and branches across our borders."

In response, Broadlink will use SkyVision’s satellite services, local hubs, and teleports to expand the former company's range of terrestrial and wireless communication solutions in the African market.

"By partnering with SkyVision," Director Brown explained, "we can now accommodate their requirements for connectivity solutions across the African continent, allowing us to expand our reach exponentially.” 


Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Orbital Science: HYLAS 2 Ka-band satellite successfully makes orbit

Orbital Sciences Corporation announced this August 14, 2012 that the HYLAS 2 broadband communications satellite it built for Avanti Communications Group PLC has successfully reached orbit.


The launch mission for the Orbital Sciences-built, Avanti-operated started on Thursday, August 2, 2012. An Ariane 5 rocket lifted off from Kourou, French Guiana a few minutes before 5:00 PM local time. The HYLAS 2 satellite successfully separated from the rocket’s final stage slightly over half an hour after liftoff.


“The HYLAS 2 mission is going very well so far following another successful launch by Arianespace," Mr. Christopher Richmond, Orbital’s Senior Vice President of Communications Satellites, said in an announcement. "Over the next several weeks," he added, "we will work with the engineering team from Avanti to conduct in-orbit testing to verify the spacecraft’s systems before it enters commercial service.”


According to Orbital Science, the HYLAS 2 satellite project proceed just as planned from design phase to its early in-orbit activation and verification processes. "We have worked closely with Avanti every step of the way," SVP Richmond elaborated, "following our model of superior customer involvement throughout the program to ensure our customer’s needs are fully met. We are pleased to be a part of Avanti’s team, bringing exciting new applications and services to these fast-growing markets.”

The Orbital Science-designed and -built HYLAS 2 platform is a high-throughput Ka-Band satellite. It will allow satellite communications company Avanti to provide broadband dat and video services to customers in Eastern and Southern Africa, Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and across the Caucasus.