Intelsat https://www.intelsat.com Intelsat operates the world's first Globalized Network, delivering high-quality, cost-effective video and broadband services anywhere in the world. Wed, 25 Jun 2025 18:49:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 Intelsat Partners with Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative to Expand Access to Education in East Africa https://www.intelsat.com/newsroom/intelsat-partners-with-whitaker-peace-and-development-initiative-to-expand-access-to-education-in-east-africa/ Wed, 25 Jun 2025 18:49:29 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51359 Satellite-powered connectivity will support enhanced online education in conflict-affected regions in East Africa

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Satellite-powered connectivity will support enhanced online education in conflict-affected regions in South Sudan and Uganda

MCLEAN, Va. – Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, announced today a groundbreaking partnership with Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian Forest Whitaker’s nonprofit, the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative (WPDI), to revolutionize access to education in conflict-affected regions across Africa. The collaboration will deliver for the first time high-speed internet connectivity to WPDI’s Community Learning Centers in South Sudan and Uganda, creating digital bridges to education for thousands of young people in areas where infrastructure has been insufficient or compromised.

Intelsat will equip 10 centers—seven in South Sudan and three in Uganda—with satellite connectivity. Over the course of this three-year partnership, Intelsat will provide equipment, managed connectivity services, installation, and ongoing technical support. This unprecedented effort will bring reliable internet access to communities where traditional connectivity infrastructure is inadequate for modern online education.

“Education is the foundation for peace,” said Forest Whitaker. “At WPDI, we use technology as a conduit to opportunity—bringing knowledge to young people whose lives have been upended by violence and political unrest. With the right tools, youths can reclaim their futures to become powerful agents of peace in their communities.”

 

The initiative comes at a critical time, as digital inequality continues to widen globally. According to the International Telecommunication Union, a mere 19% of people in the least developed nations, like South Sudan and Uganda, use the internet. In areas directly affected by conflict, these numbers drop even further, creating significant barriers to education and opportunity for vulnerable populations. By improving digital access, Intelsat and WPDI are providing learning center trainees with the resources they need to become drivers of positive change in their community and beyond. Graduates of WPDI programs have gone on to become community leaders, educators, and advocates, exemplified by individuals like Benson Lugwar, a former child soldier who is now an elected official and radio host in Uganda.

“At Intelsat, we are great believers in the power of connectivity to promote education and sustainable development around the world,” said Dave Wajsgras, CEO of Intelsat. “Forest Whitaker and WPDI’s efforts represent exactly the kind of transformative work that satellite communications can enable. We’re proud to support WPDI’s efforts to bring young people together, close the digital divide, and create pathways to prosperity in communities that need it most.”

The satellite-powered connectivity will enable WPDI to significantly expand its educational offerings, providing access to digital resources, online courses, and virtual exchange programs that were previously impossible in these remote locations. Students will gain critical digital literacy skills alongside WPDI’s established curriculum in conflict resolution, entrepreneurship, and community development.

About WPDI

The Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative (WPDI) is a non-governmental organization with an international scope and reach, committed to fostering peace and resilience by disseminating skills and promoting climate-sensitive and sustainable development in countries and places affected by violence, poverty, environmental disruption, and marginalization. In Africa, Europe, as well as Latin and North America, WPDI develops a wide range of programs aimed at training and supporting underprivileged individuals and groups, with a particular focus on youth and women, enabling them to become empowered as mediators, educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders, fostering positive transformation within their communities and beyond. To achieve its objectives, WPDI works with the communities to design and implement integrated programs in the four areas of Peacebuilding, Livelihood, Health and Well-being, and Sports. WPDI was founded in 2012 by the artist, social activist, and UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace, Forest Whitaker. www.wpdi.org

About Intelsat

Intelsat’s global team of professionals is focused on providing seamless and secure, satellite-based communications to government, NGO and commercial customers through the company’s next-generation worldwide network and managed services. Bridging the digital divide by operating one of the world’s largest and most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructures, Intelsat enables people and their tools to speak over oceans, see across continents and listen through the skies to communicate, cooperate and coexist. Since its founding six decades ago, the company has been synonymous with satellite-industry “firsts” in service to its customers and the planet. Leaning on a legacy of innovation and focusing on addressing a new generation of challenges Intelsat team members now have their sights on the “next firsts” in space as they disrupt the field and lead in the digital transformation of the industry.

Media Contact:

Melissa Longo – melissa.longo@intelsat.com; +1 240-308-1881

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Intelsat and iKO Media Group Expand Global Reach of Faith-Based Broadcasting with “Faith Beyond” on Galaxy 19 https://www.intelsat.com/newsroom/intelsat-and-iko-media-group-expand-global-reach-of-faith-based-broadcasting-with-faith-beyond-on-galaxy-19/ Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:30:00 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51323 Faith Beyond enables ministries to effortlessly expand and engage with their audience.

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MCLEAN, Va. – Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, announced an expansion of its collaboration with iKO Media Group (iKOMG), a global leader in broadcast and media solutions, promoting the distribution of religious channels globally through their project, “Faith Beyond.”

iKOMG’s Faith Beyond package is a fully managed, all-in-one service designed to support the specific needs of faith-based broadcasters looking to expand their reach and deepen audience engagement. Delivered via Intelsat’s Galaxy 19, Faith Beyond provides a complete distribution and engagement ecosystem. The solution integrates a variety of components including satellite broadcasting, OTT streaming, live events, cloud-native playout and metadata management into a single offering.

“Faith Beyond emphasizes our commitment to empowering faith-based broadcasters with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive media landscape,” said Rashmin Abhani, SVP Presale & Satellite Resource Management at iKOMG. “Combined with the unmatched reach and reliability of Galaxy 19, Faith Beyond enables ministries to effortlessly expand and engage with their audience. Our collaboration with Intelsat is built on a shared dedication to excellence, accessibility and scalable growth, delivering solutions broadcasters can trust.”

“The iKOMG dedication to providing high-quality religious content globally aligns perfectly with Intelsat’s mission to support and grow new opportunities for content providers,” said Rhys Morgan, RVP EMEA region, Intelsat. “This renewal underscores the enduring relevance of linear TV and free-to-air platforms such as Galaxy 19, demonstrating its continued importance for North American audience.”

This deal uses Intelsat’s Galaxy 19 (G-19) satellite, a premier free-to-air, direct-to-home neighborhood that provides broadcasters with a powerful platform to reach diverse audiences across North America. G-19 provides 5.7 million viewers with access to more than 110 channels, originating from 35 countries in over 20 languages. In addition to prominent faith-based programming, G-19 is home to premium entertainment, news and free-ad-support-streaming content.

Intelsat recently announced audience measurement capabilities to its enhanced VideoNow electronic program guide (EPG) for G-19, representing a significant step toward ad-monetization in the direct-to-home (DTH) free-to-air (FTA) satellite video market.

Unlike broadband-dependent services, G-19 is capable of reaching all households in North America, ensuring content is accessible regardless of internet reliability.

About Intelsat

Intelsat’s global team of professionals is focused on providing seamless and secure, satellite-based communications to government, NGO and commercial customers through the company’s next-generation worldwide network and managed services. Bridging the digital divide by operating one of the world’s largest and most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructures, Intelsat enables people and their tools to speak over oceans, see across continents and listen through the skies to communicate, cooperate and coexist. Since its founding six decades ago, the company has been synonymous with satellite-industry “firsts” in service to its customers and the planet. Leaning on a legacy of innovation and focusing on addressing a new generation of challenges Intelsat team members now have their sights on the “next firsts” in space as they disrupt the field and lead in the digital transformation of the industry.

Media Contact:

Melissa Longo – melissa.longo@intelsat.com; +1 240-308-1881

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ViewMedia Partners with Intelsat to Boost Television’s Entertainment Offerings in Sub-Saharan Africa https://www.intelsat.com/newsroom/viewmedia-partners-with-intelsat-to-boost-televisions-entertainment-offerings-in-sub-saharan-africa/ Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:30:00 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51300 This renewal, leveraging the Intelsat 20 (IS-20) video neighborhood and Africa’s premier DTH community, aims to bolster ViewMedia's business in the region by expanding its entertainment offerings and attracting new channels.

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MCLEAN, Va. – Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, has renewed its agreement with ViewMedia, a global media service provider providing a Free-to-Air (FTA) TV platform for Sub-Saharan Africa. This renewal, leveraging the Intelsat 20 (IS-20) video neighborhood and Africa’s premier DTH community, aims to bolster ViewMedia’s business in the region by expanding its entertainment offerings and attracting new channels.

Intelsat will collaborate closely with ViewMedia throughout 2025 to develop new relationships with organizations including those that handle regional audience measurement databases. This partnership will be instrumental in enhancing the variety of channels available and creating new opportunities for ad-revenue generation.

“Our goal is to support ViewMedia in providing a diverse range of entertainment channels that cater to the interests of viewers in Sub-Saharan Africa while encouraging their own growth,” said Rhys Morgan, RVP of the EMEA region for Intelsat.

The renewed service will be used across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, ensuring that ViewMedia’s audience continues to enjoy high-quality entertainment content. This initiative underscores Intelsat’s commitment to delivering exceptional viewing experiences and fostering the development of the regional media landscape.

About Intelsat

Intelsat’s global team of professionals is focused on providing seamless and secure, satellite-based communications to government, NGO and commercial customers through the company’s next-generation worldwide network and managed services. Bridging the digital divide by operating one of the world’s largest and most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructures, Intelsat enables people and their tools to speak over oceans, see across continents and listen through the skies to communicate, cooperate and coexist. Since its founding six decades ago, the company has been synonymous with satellite-industry “firsts” in service to its customers and the planet. Leaning on a legacy of innovation and focusing on addressing a new generation of challenges Intelsat team members now have their sights on the “next firsts” in space as they disrupt the field and lead in the digital transformation of the industry.

Media Contact:

Melissa Longo – melissa.longo@intelsat.com; +1 240-308-1881

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Intelsat, 4iG Group Strengthen DTH Services in Hungary with New Agreement https://www.intelsat.com/newsroom/intelsat-4ig-group-strengthens-dth-services-in-hungary-with-new-agreement/ Tue, 10 Jun 2025 05:30:00 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51284 Intelsat announced a long-term renewal agreement with Hungaro Digitel Plc. (HDT) which provides Direct-to-Home (DTH) services in Hungary, through the Intelsat 1West (1W) video neighborhood.

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MCLEAN, Va. – Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, has announced a long-term renewal agreement with Hungaro Digitel Plc. (HDT), a member of 4iG Group and the subcontractor of the One Telecommunication (also part of the 4iG Group) which provides Direct-to-Home (DTH) services in Hungary, through the Intelsat 1West (1W) video neighborhood.

This renewal of service underscores the continued strength of the Hungarian DTH market and the essential role of satellite connectivity. The satellites on 1 West reach many millions of households in the Central and Eastern European region making this orbital position an ideal multi-satellite solution providing hybrid distribution for broadcasters looking at reaching a broad audience in the region.

“With this long-term agreement with Intelsat, the 4iG Group has secured the infrastructure required to serve Hungarian satellite television subscribers. The Intelsat’s satellite continuously provides DTH transmission for Hungaro DigiTel and One Hungary. This agreement reinforces 4iG’s leading position in Hungary’s satellite TV market,” said Sándor Molnár, CEO of Hungaro DigiTel.

“This renewal highlights the enduring strength of the DTH market in Hungary and our commitment to providing reliable satellite services to meet the evolving needs of our customers, and, ultimately, their viewers,” said Rhys Morgan, RVP of the EMEA region for Intelsat. “We remain committed to supporting 4iG Group’s long-term growth strategy and evolving satellite capacity needs.”

By maintaining its partnership with Intelsat, 4iG Group guarantees seamless service continuity while also preparing for future market demands including set-top box upgrades and additional value-added services in collaboration with Intelsat’s team.

About Intelsat

Intelsat’s global team of professionals is focused on providing seamless and secure, satellite-based communications to government, NGO and commercial customers through the company’s next-generation worldwide network and managed services. Bridging the digital divide by operating one of the world’s largest and most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructures, Intelsat enables people and their tools to speak over oceans, see across continents and listen through the skies to communicate, cooperate and coexist. Since its founding six decades ago, the company has been synonymous with satellite-industry “firsts” in service to its customers and the planet. Leaning on a legacy of innovation and focusing on addressing a new generation of challenges Intelsat team members now have their sights on the “next firsts” in space as they disrupt the field and lead in the digital transformation of the industry.

About HDT

HDT is Hungary’s leading satellite telecommunications service provider offering state-of-the-art telecommunications solutions for both public and private clients. It offers its partners high reliability, fully managed satellite data transmission (VSAT), satellite-based TV, radio and video broadcasting and a variety of value-added services, implemented and monitored according to strict quality standards. As part of the HUSAT satellite program, HDT will implement multi-orbital satellite control, management and operation from its redundant sites in Hungary.

Media Contact:

Melissa Longo – melissa.longo@intelsat.com; +1 240-308-1881

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In the Solomon Islands, Intelsat’s Hands-On Partnership Delivers Enhanced Connectivity through Cellular Backhaul to All Across the Remote Pacific Nation https://www.intelsat.com/resources/blog/in-the-solomon-islands-intelsats-hands-on-partnership-delivers-enhanced-connectivity-through-cellular-backhaul-to-all-across-the-remote-pacific-nation/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 13:43:08 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51303 Cellular backhaul and managed services drive network modernization

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Geographically isolated island nations in the Pacific typically face unique and numerous challenges in ensuring that their entire population, particularly those living in remote and rural locations, have access to reliable connectivity. In addition to terrain and other logistical difficulties, the high costs of using traditional terrestrial connectivity and cellular backhaul to connect populations of a small size are difficult to justify from a business perspective. Yet, mobile network operators are obligated to deliver connectivity and provide all citizens with equal opportunity to participate in a digitized future.

Such was the case in the Solomon Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean to the northeast of Australia with a population of just over 750,000 dispersed across six major islands and 1,000 smaller ones. 

Expanding reach through partnership

With 75% of the country’s citizens residing in areas with limited or outdated connectivity options, Our Telekom, the country’s primary mobile network operator, turned to Intelsat to introduce 3G and 4G services across the country, including in the most remote and rural areas. The network operator had been utilizing cellular backhaul from Intelsat for several years but now sought to expand the partnership to bring modernized connectivity to the entire island nation. 

Cellular backhaul and managed services drive network modernization

Working collaboratively with Our Telekom, Intelsat’s managed services team of technical experts designed and deployed a cost-effective model that included migrating the operator from C-band to Ku-band and installing a completely new satellite hub and main antenna in the capital city of Honiara. With training and guidance from Intelsat, Our Telekom teams retrofitted antennas with Ku components, making it possible for remote sites to begin supporting 3G and 4G technologies. Throughout the project, Intelsat worked alongside the customer every step of the way, providing guidance and expertise and even overcoming extreme weather conditions, including heavy rains and a typhoon, to ensure that all installations and activations were executed successfully. 

With an upgraded network, an expanded footprint, and greater high-speed bandwidth from Intelsat’s CellBackhaul turnkey product, Our Telekom is now delivering high-quality 3G experiences across the Solomon Islands with readiness to support upgrades to 4G in the future. In addition to providing superior levels of connectivity and closing gaps in coverage, the new and enhanced network has led to a surge in customer satisfaction as well as new incremental revenues from data usage for the mobile operator. 

Solomon Islands workers installing cellular backhaul equipment
Our Telekom is now delivering high-quality 3G experiences across the Solomon Islands
Strengthening sovereignty and security

Because all network infrastructure, as well as all voice and data traffic, remains within the country, Our Telekom is also meeting regulatory requirements related to sovereignty and delivering a more secure and higher performing service to customers, as compared to providers using backhaul solutions that transmit traffic from outside the country via undersea fiber cables which are less secure and vulnerable to damage. 

Ongoing support that builds local expertise and scales for the future

In a reflection of the ongoing and evolving nature of the partnership, Intelsat continues to serve as an extension of the Our Telekom team, remotely monitoring the network, assisting in troubleshooting, and generating performance status reports that offer recommendations for improving the network and optimizing service. Intelsat’s emphasis on providing training and knowledge sharing in its partnership approach has given Our Telekom local employees new skills and capabilities to manage their own network, address issues, and implement any needed fixes, with Intelsat available at all times to provide guidance and suggestions for corrective actions. 

With Intelsat’s scalable, future-ready solution, continued hands-on support, and commitment to partnership, Our Telekom is positioned to meet demand as technology and innovation evolve. Intelsat and Our Telekom expect to continue adding more sites that will power new services as well as the eventual introduction of 5G, helping Solomon Islands’ residents and businesses remain connected in today’s digital world.  

About CellBackhaul:

CellBackhaul is Intelsat’s comprehensive satellite managed service that enables mobile network operators to rapidly and cost-effectively expand 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G coverage into underserved and remote areas. Utilizing GEO and LEO advanced satellite technologies, it offers reliable, end-to-end connectivity with expert support, helping operators reach new markets and enhance network reliability globally.

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Intelsat S.A. Shareholders Approve SES Transaction https://www.intelsat.com/newsroom/intelsat-s-a-shareholders-approve-ses-transaction/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:40:36 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51306 Intelsat S.A. held a shareholder meeting during which 99.99% of shareholders voted in favor of approving the SES transaction.

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June 5, 2025, Intelsat S.A. held a shareholder meeting during which 99.99% of shareholders voted in favor of approving the SES transaction. The shareholders also approved the commencement of the liquidation of Intelsat S.A. upon the closing of the transaction and the appointment of four members of the Board of Directors to serve as the liquidators:  Roy Chestnutt, David Mack, David Wajsgras and Jinhy Yoon. The liquidators will oversee the distribution of the proceeds from SES to shareholders and warrant holders. This shareholder approval was one of the conditions for closing the transaction, along with several required regulatory approvals.

Shareholder Approval PDF

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Bridging the Digital Divide in the Heart of Africa: Intelsat’s Commitment to the DRC https://www.intelsat.com/resources/blog/bridging-the-digital-divide-in-the-heart-of-africa-intelsats-commitment-to-the-drc/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:31:05 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51287 Intelsat has been a longstanding partner with the DRC and we’re constantly innovating, delivering solutions that meet user expectations and help mobile network operators (MNOs) navigate the challenges associated with the digital divide.

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In the heart of Africa lies the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a nation of immense potential and profound challenges. Vast, rich in resources, and home to more than 100 million people, more than half of whom live in rural areas, the DRC’s complex geography has long leveraged the unique and differentiating capabilities of satellite technology to enable internet access for individuals, communities and businesses in both urban and rural areas.

Intelsat has been a longstanding partner in this journey and we’re constantly innovating, delivering solutions that meet user expectations and help mobile network operators (MNOs) navigate the challenges associated with building out network infrastructure in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

congo dish
Infrastructure installation
A New Era of Connectivity Through Satellite

In 2022, Intelsat took a bold step by investing in systems and infrastructure that make it easier for MNOs to deploy cellular services more broadly across the DRC.

This investment is a natural progression following Intelsat’s sustained support to leading mobile operators in the DRC, who have been leveraging Intelsat’s high-performance satellites for decades to provide cellular backhaul coverage to remote areas, underscoring the critical role satellite continues to play in expanding and sustaining connectivity across the country.

Today, 100% of MNOs in the DRC are leveraging this state-of-the-art satellite ground platform through which Intelsat delivers its commercially known Intelsat CellBackhaul service – a fully managed cellular backhaul service where Intelsat manages all the satellite components connecting towers to the MNOs core networks – that enables mobile operators to seamlessly, quickly and economically extend the networks across the country, ensuring reliable, high-performance connectivity even in the most remote regions.

The platform not only supports MNOs in the DRC but also extends its benefits to neighboring countries. An MNO in a country adjacent to the DRC is leveraging this platform to enhance its network capabilities, reaching more subscribers. We anticipate further growth as demand for reliable connectivity continues to expand across the region.

This is more than infrastructure — it’s a catalyst for digital inclusion

Bringing connectivity to remote areas isn’t easy – especially in a country as vast and geographically complex as the DRC. Our teams have carried hundreds of kilograms of equipment across makeshift bridges and canoes, determined to reach the most isolated communities.

Congo bike
Bringing connectivity to remote areas isn’t easy

We’ve witnessed firsthand the powerful impact of connectivity in remote areas and the transformation it brings to entire communities. Suddenly, people can use mobile money to receive support from loved ones. They can make calls, sometimes speaking to distant family members for the very first time.

This is more than technology – it’s connection, opportunity and dignity. It reminds us why we do what we do, and why we’ll keep pushing forward – no matter how remote the destination.

Intelsat CellBackhaul is crucial in the DRC due to its vast, geographically challenging terrain, making it extremely difficult to lay traditional fiber optic cables to reach remote areas. Satellite backhaul is the most feasible way to extend cellular connectivity to rural communities where terrestrial infrastructure is limited, offering reliable mobile networks and fostering greater digital inclusion across the country.

Key benefits include:

  • Local partnerships, ensuring sustainable and community-aligned connectivity solutions
  • Reduced CAPEX, enabling mobile operators to expand their coverage without heavy infrastructure investment
  • 24/7 network support and monitoring
  • Quick deployment time and economical delivery of connectivity enabling reliable 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G
  • Seamless integration with existing mobile network infrastructure
The Future is Inclusive

The DRC stands as a shining example of what can be achieved with the right combination of technology, commitment, and collaboration.

Significant efforts are underway by industry stakeholders to tackle the challenges of rural connectivity, including initiatives like solar-powered base stations.

Intelsat CellBackhaul DRC solution serves as a valuable complement to these ongoing efforts, strengthening the drive toward wider and more reliable rural coverage in the country.

CBH DRC sites map
Overview of Intelsat CellBackaul sites currently deployed in the DRC

With around 850 active sites – including 120 on LTE – and over 1,000 TB of data traffic generated in 2024 alone, its growing adoption stands as a powerful testament to its value and impact. And this is just the beginning.

At Intelsat, we believe everyone deserves access to the digital world, no matter where they live.

Our investment in the DRC is just one part of a broader commitment to Africa. Similar platforms have been introduced in Nigeria and South Africa, highlighting the growing demand and scalability of this model across the continent.

And as we continue to build digital bridges across the continent, our mission remains clear: to connect the unconnected and power a more inclusive digital future for a brighter Africa.

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Galaxy 19: Unveiling North America’s Hidden Premium Audience https://www.intelsat.com/resources/blog/galaxy-19-unveiling-north-americas-hidden-premium-audience/ Wed, 04 Jun 2025 12:39:06 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51274 Galaxy 19, North America’s largest independent TV and radio community, brings together over 100 entertainment, news, multicultural, and faith-based channels from 30 countries in 20 languages directly to viewers’ homes.

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The free-to-air television landscape continues to be a vibrant sector of North America’s broadcast industry, with recent audience research revealing surprising strength and growth potential in satellite-delivered content. Galaxy 19, North America’s largest independent TV and radio community, brings together over 100 entertainment, news, multicultural, and faith-based channels from 30 countries in 20 languages directly to viewers’ homes.

A comprehensive new audience survey has uncovered remarkable insights about this platform’s reach and the distinctive profile of its viewers, presenting compelling opportunities for broadcasters and content creators looking to connect with specific communities.

Galaxy 19 serves an impressive 2.3 million homes across the United States and Canada, translating to more than 5.7 million viewers who regularly engage with its diverse content offerings. This satellite community has established itself as a crucial platform for FAST channels, faith-based programming, and multicultural content, delivering a single, reliable distribution solution with exceptional continental coverage. Perhaps most significantly, Galaxy 19 reaches both well-connected urban centers and traditionally underserved rural areas, ensuring content providers can access audiences that might otherwise be missed by alternative delivery methods.

What truly distinguishes Galaxy 19 is its remarkably different audience profile compared to traditional broadcast platforms.

  • The survey reveals a surprisingly youthful demographic, with 67.8% of U.S. viewers and an even higher 74.2% of Canadian viewers falling between 18-44 years of age.
  • This younger audience also demonstrates greater affluence, with 44.4% of U.S. Galaxy 19 households reporting incomes exceeding $100,000, while 40.6% of Canadian homes report similar income levels.
  • Educational achievement among viewers is equally impressive, with 57.7% of U.S. and 66.0% of Canadian Galaxy 19 viewers having completed college degrees.

The platform’s audience also exhibits exceptional linguistic diversity and technological sophistication. Spanish is spoken in 15.0% of Galaxy 19’s U.S. homes and Arabic in 1.6%, while in Canada, French is spoken in 13.7% of households and Arabic in 6.6%.

Technology adoption rates further differentiate this audience, with over 94% of homes using connected satellite TV set-top boxes and more than 97% utilizing connected TV sets in both countries. “These metrics reveal not just the size but the quality of our audience,” notes an industry analyst familiar with the survey results. “Content providers are discovering they can reach a younger, more affluent, and technologically savvy demographic through free-to-air satellite distribution.”

Galaxy 19’s penetration into specific cultural communities is particularly noteworthy. The platform reaches 42% of U.S. households watching Arabic programming and serves as the exclusive free-to-air satellite home for most available Arabic channels. Similarly, 38% of U.S. households viewing African French programming do so via Galaxy 19, which exclusively carries all African French language channels available by satellite. The Christian programming audience also demonstrates remarkable loyalty, with 40% of viewers having switched providers specifically to access Galaxy 19’s faith-based content.

The launch of Galaxy 19’s new EPG/Audience Measurement app represents another significant advancement for both viewers and content providers on the platform. This innovation delivers an on-screen program guide enhancing the viewing experience while simultaneously enabling real-time audience measurement.

“This development is transformative for content monetization,” explains a broadcasting executive working with Galaxy 19. “Combined with the survey’s demographic insights, the app’s real-time measurement capabilities create unprecedented opportunities for programmers to quantify and monetize their audience.”

The Galaxy 19 survey results ultimately challenge conventional wisdom about free-to-air satellite audiences, revealing instead a younger, more affluent, better educated, and technologically advanced viewer base concentrated in key cultural and faith-based communities.

As the broadcast industry continues evolving across multiple platforms, Galaxy 19’s unique position connecting content providers with this premium North American audience represents a compelling opportunity for channels seeking expanded reach and engagement. With its robust distribution platform now enhanced by new audience measurement capabilities, Galaxy 19 stands as an essential component of any comprehensive North American content distribution strategy.

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Intelsat Inflight Connectivity Coming to Royal Brunei Airlines https://www.intelsat.com/newsroom/intelsat-inflight-connectivity-coming-to-royal-brunei-airlines/ Tue, 03 Jun 2025 03:00:00 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51278 Intelsat was selected by Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) to provide multi-orbit inflight connectivity service to the airline’s Airbus A320neo fleet, solidifying Intelsat’s position as one of the top providers of broadband service among Asian-Pacific airlines.

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Passengers to benefit from reliable multi-orbit connectivity

McLean, Va. – Intelsat, operator of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial network, was selected by Royal Brunei Airlines (RB), the country’s flag carrier, to provide multi-orbit inflight connectivity service to the airline’s Airbus A320neo fleet, solidifying Intelsat’s position as one of the top providers of broadband service among Asian-Pacific airlines.

“Royal Brunei’s passengers will soon benefit from reliable, multi-orbit connectivity that will provide the same fast and dependable internet access they enjoy at home no matter where or when they fly,” said Mike DeMarco, Intelsat Chief Commercial Officer. “The Intelsat team is proud to have been selected by RB to deliver a product that will keep the airline on the cutting edge.”

RB provides scheduled services across Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Intelsat in the fourth quarter of 2025 will start installing the new multi-orbit system on the A320s, including the new electronically steered array (ESA) antenna, which is less than seven centimeters tall and delivers unmatched reliability connecting to both Intelsat’s geostationary (GEO) satellites and low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.

Captain Sabirin Haji Abdul Hamid, RB Chief Executive Officer said, “We’re excited to bring this next generation of connectivity to our Airbus A320neo fleet, ensuring our guests stay seamlessly connected wherever their journeys take them. This technology not only sets a new standard for in-flight internet, but also reflects our commitment to innovation and delivering an exceptional experience for travelers across the region. We believe that staying connected in the air is a necessity, and we’re proud to partner with Intelsat in delivering this next-level experience to our travelers across the Asia-Pacific region.”

About Intelsat

Intelsat’s global team of professionals is focused on providing seamless and secure, satellite-based communications to government, NGO and commercial customers through the company’s next-generation worldwide network and managed services. Bridging the digital divide by operating one of the world’s largest and most advanced satellite fleet and connectivity infrastructures, Intelsat enables people and their tools to speak over oceans, see across continents and listen through the skies to communicate, cooperate and coexist. Since its founding six decades ago, the company has been synonymous with satellite-industry “firsts” in service to its customers and the planet. Leaning on a legacy of innovation and focusing on addressing a new generation of challenges, Intelsat team members now have their sights on the “next firsts” in space as they disrupt the field and lead in the digital transformation of the industry.

Media Contact:

Melissa Longo – melissa.longo@intelsat.com; +1 240-308-1881

About Royal Brunei Airlines

Established in 1974, Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) is the national carrier of Brunei Darussalam. RB operates a fleet of five Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners and seven Airbus A320NEOs. From 2018 to 2020 TripAdvisor recognised RB in the Travellers’ Choice Regional Airlines (Asia) for three consecutive years. In 2019, RB received a Five-Star rating from APEX and won Four Stars at the SKYTRAX Awards. RB’s commitment to safety and service was reaffirmed in 2021 with a seven-star COVID-19 safety rating from AirlineRatings.com. In 2021, RB also won Asia’s and the World’s Leading Cabin Crew titles from the World Travel Awards (WTA), honours it held through 2022. In 2024, Crescent Rating named RB the Muslim-Friendly Airline of the Year and was named the World’s Leading Cabin Crew by WTA for the fifth consecutive year. RB was awarded 2025 APEX Best in Cabin Service & Food and Beverage Award in East Asia and recognised as a 2025 APEX Four-Star Major Airline. As it celebrates 50 years of connecting Brunei to the world, RB continues to deliver exceptional service, grounded in the principles of care, community, and ikhlas – sincerely from the heart. For more information, visit: www.flyrb.com

For Media Inquiries: 

Royal Brunei Airlines Corporate Communications 
Email: media@rba.com.bn 
Website: www.flyrb.com

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Intelsat and Help.NGO Expand Rapid-Response Connectivity Capabilities Ahead of 2025 Hurricane Season https://www.intelsat.com/resources/blog/intelsat-and-help-ngo-expand-rapid-response-connectivity-capabilities-ahead-of-2025-hurricane-season/ Thu, 29 May 2025 13:52:32 +0000 https://www.intelsat.com/?p=51208 As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, Intelsat and Help.NGO are strengthening their long-standing partnership to deliver faster, more reliable connectivity to disaster-affected communities.

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Decade-Long Partnership Strengthens Resilience and Speed for Disaster Relief Efforts

As the 2025 hurricane season approaches, Intelsat and Help.NGO are strengthening their long-standing partnership to deliver faster, more reliable connectivity to disaster-affected communities. With over a decade of collaboration, the two organizations have supported some of the world’s most critical emergency response efforts.

Intelsat continues to enhance response times through strategic coordination before, during and after hurricane season. This year also marks the second consecutive year that Intelsat will provide multi-orbit connectivity to support Help.NGO’s disaster response operations.

Meteorologists are forecasting an above-average Atlantic hurricane season this year. AccuWeather projects between 13 to 18 named storms, including up to 10 hurricanes, 5 of which could reach major hurricane status (Category 3 or higher). As the threat of severe weather intensifies, so does the urgency to restore connectivity as quickly as possible in the wake of a crisis, where every second counts. Reliable communication networks are the lifeline that enables rescue operations, medical response, and the coordination of essential aid, making the difference between life and death in disaster zones.

A Decade of Experience, Deployed in Hours

Thanks to robust infrastructure and strategic preparedness, Intelsat and Help.NGO maintain satellite terminals on standby for rapid deployment across key disaster-prone regions worldwide. This significantly reduces the response timeline, from the moment an emergency strikes to when connectivity is live on the ground.

The terminals feature intuitive, autonomous operation capabilities. Responders no longer need to wait for VSAT specialists to arrive; non-technical emergency teams can deploy and use the “plug and play” technology immediately, saving critical hours during initial disaster response.

Real-World Impact: Hurricanes Helene and Milton

The partnership’s capabilities were put to the test during back-to-back hurricanes Helene and Milton, which devastated the southeastern United States in late 2024. Widespread power outages, cellular disruptions, and blocked roads left communities in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina isolated from vital communication channels.

Help.NGO teams were among the first responders to deploy, relying on Intelsat’s multi-orbit satellite network to reestablish connectivity across affected zones. Using sophisticated hybrid approach—geostationary (GEO) satellites for broad coverage and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites via Eutelsat OneWeb for low-latency services— emergency teams maintained reliable connections even in the most isolated and damaged areas.

Case Study

Restoring Critical Communications After Hurricanes Helene and Milton

 

HelpNGO assisting with hurricane recovery
A Blueprint for the Future of Disaster Response

Looking ahead, the Intelsat-Help.NGO collaboration stands as a model for how technology and preparedness can transform emergency response. By enabling fast, autonomous deployment and dependable communications in the world’s most difficult conditions, they are setting new standards for what’s possible in humanitarian aid.

As communities worldwide brace for the 2025 hurricane season, one thing is certain: Help.NGO and Intelsat will be ready; on the ground, online and fully connected when it matters most.

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