What does cutting-edge space technology, next-generation innovation and a dual ELERA and Global Xpress payload mean for our global mobility, government and IoT customers?
I-6 F1 – the first of two Inmarsat-6 (I-6) satellites – is scheduled to launch from the JAXA Tanegashima Space Centre in Japan with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on 21 Decemeber 2021 onboard its H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 45 (HIIA F45).
The I-6 satellites are not only the most technologically advanced and largest commercial communications satellites ever launched, they are also Inmarsat’s first hybrid satellites, featuring both L-band (ELERA) and Ka-band (Global Xpress) communications payloads.
The launch window for I-6 F1 is 14:33:52 – 16:33:26 GMT / 23:33:52 – 01:33:26 a.m. JST.
The I-6 Story
Enhanced Customer Capabilities
That means greater capacity and coverage, greater speeds and a greater portfolio of innovative connectivity solutions for our ELERA and Global Xpress (GX) networks. And because the satellites, like all Inmarsat ELERA and GX spacecraft, are backward-compatible with existing terminals, current and future customers can continue to benefit from new advances.
The launch of I-6 F1 will also mark the start of our visionary and fully funded technology roadmap, which will see the launch of seven satellites by 2024 and a ground network expansion like no other, to transform and enhance connectivity services and solutions for our mobility, government and IoT customers across the world.
Connectivity In Harmony
The I-6 satellites will also provide a key role in the geostationary earth orbit (GEO) element of Inmarsat Orchestra – the first-of-its-kind network that will combine GEO, low earth orbit (LEO), highly elliptical orbit (HEO) and 5G in one harmonious solution to redefine global, mobile connectivity as we know it.
Inspiring New Possibilities
Our L-band services have long been synonymous with 99.95% reliability, resilience and availability, providing the vital maritime and aviation safety services that protect millions of seafarers and airline passengers every day, as well as supporting Internet of Things (IoT) applications.
References
I-6 F1. Inmarsat Corporate Website. (n.d.). Retrieved December 9, 2021, from https://www.inmarsat.com/en/about/technology/satellites/i-6-f1.html.
