SES Completes O3b mPOWER Constellation with Final Satellite Launch
Event summary
- SES launched its final three O3b mPOWER satellites on September 13, 2026, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
- The launch completes the 13-satellite second-generation MEO constellation.
- Satellites will become operational by mid-2027, expanding high-performance connectivity capacity.
- SES aims to deliver multi-gigabit connectivity to enterprise, government, and mobility customers.
The big picture
SES's completion of the O3b mPOWER constellation solidifies its leadership in MEO connectivity, positioning it to compete with emerging LEO networks. The expansion aligns with growing demand for secure, scalable connectivity in underserved regions, though execution risks remain as the satellites become operational. The move underscores SES's strategy of integrating multi-orbit solutions to deliver seamless global connectivity.
What we're watching
- Network Performance
- How the final satellites' integration will affect overall system resiliency and capacity.
- Market Adoption
- Whether SES can sustain demand for its high-performance MEO services in competitive markets.
- Technological Roadmap
- The pace at which SES advances its next-generation MEO network strategy.
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