The Inmarsat-6 F1 (I-6 F1) is the first of two satellites that the firm plans to launch into geostationary orbit, about 35,785km above the Earth.
It will be able to make use of L-band communication networks using global narrowband technology Elera, as well as Ka-band.
Although L-band provides relatively slow-speed connectivity, demand for its use in Internet of Things (IoT) applications has been growing. Such applications include remote assets – which includes everything from shipping containers to bulldozers – allowing the sensors to make regular reports back to base of their operational status.
The satellite could also help to bolster other services such as 5G, Wi-Fi on planes, remote drones, autonomous vehicles, and remote sensors used for ocean and agricultural monitoring.
Inmarsat already operates around 14 satellites held in a geostationary orbit that are used for critical maritime and aviation safety services among other uses.
“What it will offer...