Optus have continued their investment in infrastructure and increasing their coverage announcing on Friday that they’ve added another satellite to their fleet. Called Optus 10, the satellite will provide voice and data connectivity to customers in both regional and remote areas of Australia.
The press release reveals that the satellite was launched 3 months ago and underwent in-orbit testing prior to being added to the live network providing services to Optus clients and reveals some of the statistics of the satellite
The Optus 10 satellite:
- Launched from the Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana on an Ariane 5 rocket.
- Positioned in orbit at 164 degrees East.
- Is the tenth successfully launched satellite and the sixth in the operating fleet.
- Has a lifespan of up to 15 years.
- Is controlled from Optus’ Sydney earth station in Belrose with back-up by Optus’ Perth earth station.
- Is able to operate in either the Ku Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) or Broadcast Satellite Services (BSS) bands.
It’s great news for anyone working away from the big smoke that there are option to ensure that you’re contactable at all times even in Remote and Rural areas.
Have you worked or lived outside major metro areas? What was your experience with phone coverage?