Satellite operator Intelsat has been part of two very different deals recently, both underlining the diverse uses of satellite communications. One involves extending video connectivity in Brazil. The other aims to improve maritime connectivity across an area that includes Africa and the Middle East.
In Brazil Intelsat has announced the commencement of seeding of antennas at more than 200 cable headends in cooperation with local vendor Z2Gtech.
Antenna seeding is an installation programme providing widespread access to cable headends (facilities for receiving television signals for processing and distribution over a cable television system) across Brazil, creating a new video neighbourhood on Intelsat 14 (IS-14) at 45°WL.
IS-14, a communications satellite owned by Intelsat located at 45° West longitude, is focused on regional video distribution and has high penetration into regional systems across all Latin American countries. IS-14 will reach more than 98% of cable TV subscribers, bringing value and monetisation opportunities for programmers seeking to reach the Brazilian market.
The antenna programme is described as a pioneering way to enhance cable penetration to all key multiple-system operators (MSOs) in Brazil.
Meanwhile, Intelsat and smart network company Marlink have extended their partnership to offer increased Ku and C-band satellite connectivity to maritime customers in cruise and merchant shipping sectors, where demand for digital services is growing post-Covid.
The agreement will see Intelsat assign capacity to the Marlink network, providing a unique level of coverage in waters as far south as Antarctica as well as ocean regions around Africa and the Middle East.
