It was recently announced that SES had ordered a software-defined geostationary satellite in order to expand its content and connectivity services in Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Indeed, the satellite SES-26 has requested the software from Thales Alenia Space to help reprogram the communications payload in orbit so it can adapt easier to changing mission needs. The satellite will also be supporting government communications solutions. The software, ASTRA 1Q and ASTRA 1P, should be launched in 2024 to 19.2 degrees East to replace four spacecraft serving broadcast markets.

The satellite SES-26 itself is then set to launch in 2024 or 2025. SES has for goal to replace all ifs fleet in geostationary orbit with software-defined satellites in order to future-proof their satellites.