Eutelsat, OneWeb want to create hybrid LEO-GEO satellite network

The satellite companies Eutelsat and OneWeb are pushing the benefits of a proposed merger whereby the shareholders of each company would hold 50% of the Eutelsat shares. They say that combined they could focus on the broadband satellite connectivity market by offering the first global combined geostationary orbit (GEO) and low-earth orbit (LEO) infrastructure. If the merger between OneWeb and Eutelsat is allowed, the companies say they will begin working together on the design of OneWeb’s Gen 2 LEO constellation. Eutelsat and OneWeb say they have a clear roadmap for the integration of their respective in-orbit and on-ground assets, culminating in a fully integrated GEO/LEO network with the entry into service of OneWeb’s Gen 2 by early 2028. Satellite connectivity has recently taken on new excitement in the telecommunications sphere because of announcements between SpaceX and T-Mobile and between Apple and Globalstar. These companies are working on technology where satellites connect directly to existing mobile phones.