OneWeb Satellites

Syllabus: General Studies Paper 3

Describing the simultaneous placement of 36 OneWeb satellites in space a week ago as a major feat, Prime Minister said the move would strengthen digital connectivity across the whole country.

One Web

• OneWeb is a global communications company that aims to deliver broadband satellite Internet around the world through its fleet of LEO satellites.
• OneWeb satellites are built at a OneWeb and Airbus joint venture facility in Florida that can produce up to two satellites a day.
• The launch roll-out of the satellites is facilitated by French company Arianespace using Russian-made Soyuz rockets.

OneWeb Satellite

• A set of 36 satellites of the UK-based Network Access Associated Ltd (OneWeb).
• It is a global communications network, powered from space, enabling connectivity for governments, businesses, and communities. 
• OneWeb has teamed up with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of national space agency Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to facilitate the launch.

OneWeb Constellation Summary

• OneWeb Constellation operates in a LEO Polar Orbit
• Satellites are arranged in 12 rings (Orbital planes) with 49 satellites in each plane.
• Each satellite completes a full trip around the earth every 109 minutes.
• The earth is rotating underneath satellites, so they will always be flying over new locations on the ground.