Thaicom chooses Astranis to supply new Thaicom-9 satellite

Details: Vaughan O'Grady; Category: Satellite Networks; 06 March 2024; 7525 views

Satellite and space tech company Thaicom has announced the selection of Astranis, a fast-growing satellite manufacturer and operator, to supply Thaicom-9, the newest addition to the Bangkok-headquartered company's fleet of high-throughput satellites, at 119.5 degrees East.

Thaicom’s subsidiary Space Tech Innovation Limited (STI) and Astranis have signed an agreement for an Astranis MicroGEO satellite to provide Ka-band services over Asia, with an option for expanded coverage through future satellites. The satellite will be launched in 2025.

Thaicom, a leading Asian satellite operator and provider of integrated satellite communications since 1991, says Thaicom-9 will provide it with next-generation operating capabilities, including an industry-leading time to market as well as flexibility to adapt its mission while in orbit.

The satellite is equipped with high-performance software-defined radio that can change coverage and bandwidth allocation in orbit to serve multiple geographies while also allowing it to dynamically change frequencies, power levels, and other operational variables on the fly.

The SpaceNews website says the small geostationary (GEO) satellite will provide broadband to some of the most remote and unconnected areas in Asia. It notes that Thaicom has four geostationary satellites in orbit today: Thaicom-4, -6, -7, and -8, providing a mix of broadcast and broadband services.

And another satellite is on the way. Last year, the operator picked Europe’s Airbus to build another Asia-focused spacecraft. Thaicom-10 is slated to launch in 2027.