Viasat, Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT), a leading global provider of satellite communications, has announced the successful launch of the Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
The ASBM, spearheaded by Space Norway’s subsidiary Heosat, marks a significant milestone as the first mission to deploy broadband commercial service payloads in a highly elliptical orbit (HEO). The mission will see the launch of two satellites, ASBM-1 and ASBM-2, equipped with the GX10A and GX10B Ka-band payloads. These satellites will extend Viasat’s high-speed global network, offering dedicated coverage to the Arctic region.
Following the launch, the satellites will undergo technical testing and integration, with the GX10A and GX10B payloads expected to be operational by early to mid-2025.
The Arctic region is experiencing a surge in connectivity demand from governments, commercial mobility customers, and scientists. Once operational, these new payloads will enhance Viasat’s global network, providing expanded coverage and dedicated capacity in the Arctic.
In addition to this mission, Viasat is working on five new Ka-band satellites, currently under construction, which are set to boost its high-speed broadband capacity and capabilities for both government and commercial mobility customers in the coming years.
Mark Dickinson, Head of Space Systems at Viasat, expressed gratitude to Space Norway and project partners for their collaboration and commitment to the mission. He also acknowledged the efforts of Viasat’s experts, who will now focus on integrating the payloads and delivering the necessary flexibility, coverage, and connectivity for their customers.
Kjell-Ove Skare, Space Norway Program Director, highlighted the importance of the ASBM satellites in advancing broadband access for civilian, government, and military users in the Arctic. He praised the collaborative effort of all parties involved in the ASBM program, emphasizing their shared goal of improving Arctic connectivity.
