What Happened
European Operator Expands LEO Presence With New Constellation
European satellite operator Eutelsat has outlined plans for a new 528-satellite constellation in LEO, called Eutelsat Next, in recent FCC filings. The proposed constellation will operate separately from its existing OneWeb constellation and will use Ku- and Ka-band frequencies, with compatibility with 5G standards. The network will operate through 50 gateway stations worldwide, including six existing facilities in the United States. According to Payload Space, Eutelsat’s plans for Eutelsat Next may signal a significant expansion of its LEO presence.