Swedish Satellite Provider, Ovzon, Successfully Launches First Fully Owned Satellite
Swedish satcom service provider, Ovzon, made a major achievement in the space industry by successfully launching its first fully owned satellite, Ovzon 3. The satellite was launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Manufactured by Maxar Technologies, Ovzon 3 is now on its way to its designated orbital slot at 59.7 degrees East using onboard electric propulsion.
Ovzon 3 is expected to offer mobile connectivity services by the middle of this year, subject to successful in-orbit health checks. Ovzon had originally ordered the satellite in 2018 and had planned to launch it on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy in 2021. However, due to manufacturing and launch setbacks, the company had to switch to Arianespace as the launch provider.
Further delays and complications led to the Ovzon 3 mission being moved back to SpaceX in early 2023, with the launch finally taking place on January 3, 2024. Ovzon was granted extensions by international regulators for the deadline to provide services from the satellite, which has now been extended to July 4, 2024.
Ovzon specializes in providing broadband services primarily to government customers across various regions. The newly launched satellite, Ovzon 3, is equipped with five steerable beams and a reprogrammable onboard processor, allowing remote satellite terminals to operate independently. With its own satellite, Ovzon aims to expand its services across Europe.
In addition to the successful satellite launch, the SpaceX Falcon 9 booster made a noteworthy return to a nearby landing zone, marking a step forward in the company’s efforts towards reusable rocket technology.
The launch of Ovzon’s fully owned satellite signifies a significant milestone for the Swedish satcom service provider. With the promise of providing mobile connectivity services and opportunities for expansion, Ovzon is poised to make a notable impact in the industry.
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