SpaceX has received contracts to launch two communication satellites to GEO during 2023. Both missions are set to use the mainstay Falcon 9 rocket.
The first arrived on 8 September and was signed by Yahsat, UAE. This contract covers the launch of its upcoming next-generation Thuraya 4-NGS satellite, currently being built by Airbus DS. Yahsat purchased compatriot Thuraya in 2018 and with it its two aging satellites. It is Yahsat’s intention that this launch planned for second half-2023 will replace one or both of these older units which are already beyond their design lives.
The second contract awarded on 17 September is for the Turkish Government. This one is in service for its Turksat 6A satellite which is being being built by domestic industry. This satellite is planned for launch in the first quarter of 2023. Like the earlier contract award, no financial details were revealed by either party.
A Falcon 9 rocket launching Turksat 5A in January this year. Courtesy of SpaceX
