Arianespace Successfully Launches Four O3b Networks Satellites
![Arianespace Successfully Launches Four O3b Networks Satellites](https://media2.spaceref.com/news/2014/arianespace_o3b_launch_121814_945.jpg)
Arianespace’s Soyuz launcher has begun its 10th mission from the Spaceport in French Guiana, carrying four satellites that will expand O3b Networks’ pioneering connectivity service.
Soyuz – the medium-lift member of Arianespace’s launch vehicle family – is to deploy its satellite passengers on a flight lasting 2 hrs., 22 min. Total payload lift performance is estimated at 3,180 kg., including a combined mass of about 2,800 kg. for the four spacecraft.
Operating from a medium-Earth altitude, the O3b Networks spacecraft will deliver telecommunications and Internet services to Asia, Africa, South America, Australia and the Middle East – combining the global reach of satellite coverage with the speed of a fiber-optic network.
Today’s mission is designated Flight VS10 in Arianespace’s numbering system.