Remote Connectivity & Overcrowded Network Relief
This episode, Keith Townsend sits down with Jim King, Sales Director of SES Satellites, to talk about the importance of space networking—that is, satellite broadband. Jim and I explore why space networking is essential, especially in scenarios where terrestrial service is not available or practical.
When disaster strikes, reliable communication is essential. Our sponsor SES Satellites offers a suite of flexible solutions that can support response and recovery missions worldwide, whether it’s providing end-to-end network connectivity via their GEO satellite fleet, delivering low-latency data and cloud access via their MEO constellation, or enabling scalable and portable terminals for remote deployments, SES has the proven performance and experience to help you save lives and restore normalcy. Learn more about SES crisis response solution here: [link]
Key Takeaways:
1. Growing Significance of Space Networking: The discussion begins with the increasing relevance of space networking in the context of universal and global access. Highlighting the expanding interest in space networking due to the need for AI power and data transfer from remote locations.
2. Wide Range of Applications: Satellite networking is not limited to deep space but is widely used in various moving vehicles like ships, airplanes, trucks, and trains. It serves as a crucial connectivity solution for locations where terrestrial service is not feasible.
3. Different Orbits for Different Use Cases: SES has satellites in different orbits, including Geo (geosynchronous), MEO (medium Earth orbit), and Leo (low Earth orbit).
Each orbit type has its advantages and use cases.
a. GEO: Ideal for broadcast with wide coverage and acceptable latency.
b. MEO: Provides significantly higher bandwidth and lower latency, making it suitable for scenarios like boats, islands, and remote areas.
c. LEO: Offers lower latency but may have highly contended bandwidth
4. SES’s MEO and mPOWER Services: SES’s MEO service is a high-throughput, low-latency solution suitable for areas with diverse connectivity needs. The O3b mPOWER service can deliver high speeds (100 Mbps to a gigabit or more) for various applications.
5. Satellite Connectivity Speed to Value: Compared to traditional methods like laying fiber, satellite provisioning is described as nearly instantaneous. This makes it a valuable solution in remote areas where other infrastructure deployment might be challenging.
6. Connectivity Across Industries: SES typically works with service providers, governments, and agencies rather than direct-to-consumer. One example is providing connectivity to the Galapagos Islands through a government agency.
7. Cloud Providers and Collaboration: SES collaborates with major cloud providers like Amazon and Microsoft, offering high-speed connections that enable efficient access to cloud data. Satellite networks can serve as a backbone for cloud services in remote areas.
8. Economics of Satellite Connectivity: In areas where traditional options like fiber or geostationary satellites may not be feasible, MEO satellites can be an ideal solution. Ease of deployment and low infrastructure requirements make it more economically viable than other options.
9. Complementing 5G Networks: MEO service will be a critical component in building out 5G networks, especially in areas lacking fiber infrastructure. It can provide temporary 5G capabilities in disaster-stricken areas until traditional towers are rebuilt.
