Low earth orbit (LEO) satellite operator OneWeb has confirmed the successful deployment of an additional 40 satellites for its constellation and confirmed that it expects to complete the global footprint of its first-generation constellation with its next scheduled launch later this month.
This most recent launch was performed by SpaceX from Florida on 9 March. 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 since been confirmed.
This launch is OneWeb’s seventeenth to date, and the penultimate mission to complete its first-generation (Gen 1) LEO satellite constellation to enable global coverage in 2023. The company has 582 satellites now in orbit.
“(This) 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,” said Neil Masterson, Chief Executive Officer of OneWeb.
“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.”
