Inmarsat, the British satellite telecommunications company, has been providing global mobile satellite communications for over 40 years. With a fleet of 13 satellites in orbit, Inmarsat has been a key player in connecting people and businesses across the world. However, with the rapid advancement of technology, Inmarsat is now looking to the future to ensure it remains at the forefront of global connectivity.
One of the key areas of focus for Inmarsat is the development of its next-generation satellites. Inmarsat’s Global Xpress (GX) network, which launched in 2013, was the first high-throughput satellite (HTS) network to provide global coverage. The GX network is currently powered by four satellites, but Inmarsat has plans to launch three more GX satellites in the coming years.
The new GX satellites will be more advanced than their predecessors, with increased capacity and improved coverage. Inmarsat’s fifth GX satellite, which is set to launch in 2021, will provide coverage over the Arctic region, which is becoming increasingly important as shipping routes open up due to melting ice caps. The sixth and seventh GX satellites, set to launch in 2023 and 2024 respectively, will provide additional capacity and coverage over the Asia-Pacific region.
In addition to the GX network, Inmarsat is also developing its European Aviation Network (EAN), which provides in-flight connectivity for passengers on European airlines. The EAN is powered by a dedicated satellite and a ground network of around 300 LTE (Long-Term Evolution) sites across Europe. Inmarsat is currently working on a second-generation EAN, which will provide even faster and more reliable in-flight connectivity.
Another area of focus for Inmarsat is the development of its Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities. Inmarsat’s IoT network, which is powered by its I-4 satellites, provides connectivity for a wide range of IoT devices, from smart meters to remote sensors. Inmarsat is now working on a new IoT network, powered by its sixth-generation (I-6) satellites, which will provide even greater capacity and coverage.
The I-6 satellites will also support Inmarsat’s Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), which provides emergency communications for ships in distress. The GMDSS is a vital service for the maritime industry, and Inmarsat’s new satellites will ensure that it remains reliable and effective for years to come.
Overall, Inmarsat’s future looks bright, with a range of new satellites and services in development. These new technologies will provide even greater connectivity and reliability for businesses and individuals across the world. However, there are also some challenges ahead for Inmarsat, particularly in the face of increasing competition from other satellite providers and new technologies such as 5G.
To stay ahead of the game, Inmarsat will need to continue to innovate and invest in new technologies. This will require significant investment, but Inmarsat’s track record of success and its strong partnerships with governments and businesses around the world suggest that it is up to the challenge.
In conclusion, the future of Inmarsat satellites looks bright, with a range of new technologies in development that will provide even greater connectivity and reliability for businesses and individuals across the world. However, Inmarsat will need to continue to innovate and invest in new technologies to stay ahead of the game in an increasingly competitive market. With its strong track record and partnerships, Inmarsat is well-positioned to meet these challenges and continue to provide vital global connectivity for years to come.