SES Expands O3b mPOWER Satellite Constellation

Two new satellites come online, boosting connectivity services globally

Mar. 5, 2026 at 7:42pm

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SES, a leading satellite operator, has announced the successful launch and operation of the ninth and tenth satellites in its O3b mPOWER connectivity constellation in Medium-Earth Orbit (MEO). The new satellites expand the constellation's capacity, with three more scheduled to launch later this year to complete the 13-satellite network.

Why it matters

The O3b mPOWER constellation provides critical connectivity services to governments, telecom providers, and industries like cruise lines around the world. The expansion of the network will significantly increase SES's ability to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet and other data services globally.

The details

The ninth and tenth O3b mPOWER satellites were launched by SpaceX on July 22 from Cape Canaveral, Florida. They use a redesigned power module developed by Boeing after issues were discovered with the initial satellites' power systems. With 10 of the 13 planned satellites now operational, SES is on track to fully deploy the O3b mPOWER constellation by 2027, bringing a substantial increase in capacity and capabilities.

  • The ninth and tenth O3b mPOWER satellites were launched on July 22, 2026.
  • SES began delivering commercial service from the O3b mPOWER constellation in April 2024.
  • Three additional O3b mPOWER satellites are scheduled to launch in the second half of 2026, completing the 13-satellite constellation.

The players

SES

A leading global satellite operator that provides connectivity services worldwide.

O3b mPOWER

SES's connectivity constellation in Medium-Earth Orbit (MEO), designed to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet and data services globally.

SpaceX

The private aerospace company that launched the ninth and tenth O3b mPOWER satellites from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Boeing

The aerospace company that redesigned the power modules for the O3b mPOWER satellites after issues were discovered with the initial design.

Adel Al-Saleh

The CEO of SES.

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What they’re saying

“This added capacity strengthens what we can deliver today and it's a clear signal of what's coming next.”

— Adel Al-Saleh, CEO, SES

What’s next

Three additional O3b mPOWER satellites are scheduled to launch in the second half of 2026, completing the 13-satellite constellation.

The takeaway

SES's expansion of its O3b mPOWER satellite network demonstrates the company's commitment to delivering high-performance, global connectivity services that support governments, telecom providers, and key industries around the world.