11 August 2024 – Viasat, Inc., a global leader in satellite communications, has confirmed the Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM) has successfully launched from Vandenburg Space Force Base. The mission, led by the Space Norway subsidiary Heosat, will see two satellites deployed in a highly elliptical orbit (HEO) in the world’s first HEO mission carrying a broadband commercial service payload. The two satellites – ASBM-1 and ASBM-2 – will host the GX10A and GX10B Ka-band payloads, which Viasat will use to extend the company’s high-speed global network with dedicated Arctic region coverage. The satellites will be positioned into their orbit paths before technical testing and integration. The GX10A and 10B payloads are expected to enter service in early to mid-calendar year 2025. Read more