# O3B FM7
**Wikidata**: [Q18327702](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q18327702)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/o3b-fm7

## Summary  
O3B FM7 is a communications satellite launched on July 10, 2014, as part of the O3b Networks constellation to provide high-speed internet connectivity to underserved regions around the equator. It was deployed into orbit using a Soyuz-2.1b rocket from the Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz launch site. The satellite is classified as a telecommunications platform and is identified by COSPAR ID 2014-038B and SCN number 40080.

## Key Facts  
- Launched on **July 10, 2014** from the **Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz** launch site  
- Launch vehicle: **Soyuz-2.1b**  
- Satellite classification: **communications satellite**  
- COSPAR identifier: **2014-038B**  
- SCN (Satellite Catalog Number): **40080**  
- Part of the **O3b Networks** satellite constellation  
- Operated by **SES S.A.** (parent company of O3b Networks)  
- Designed to deliver **low-latency broadband services** to remote areas near the equator  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is O3B FM7 used for?  
A: O3B FM7 is a communications satellite used to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access to underserved regions, particularly in equatorial zones. It supports mobile backhaul, enterprise networks, and government communications.

### Q: When was O3B FM7 launched?  
A: O3B FM7 was launched on **July 10, 2014**, from the Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz spaceport in French Guiana.

### Q: Who operates O3B FM7?  
A: O3B FM7 is operated by **SES S.A.**, which acquired O3b Networks, the original developer and operator of the satellite constellation.

## Why It Matters  
O3B FM7 plays a critical role in bridging the digital divide by delivering affordable, high-performance internet to remote and isolated regions across the globe. As part of the O3b (Other 3 Billion) initiative, it enables governments, businesses, and communities in equatorial regions to access modern telecommunications infrastructure. Its medium Earth orbit (MEO) positioning offers significantly lower latency than traditional geostationary satellites, making it ideal for real-time applications such as video conferencing, online education, and telemedicine. This technological leap has transformed connectivity options for developing nations and maritime operations, contributing to global economic development and social inclusion.

## Notable For  
- One of the first MEO-based broadband satellites designed specifically for equatorial coverage  
- Provides **lower latency** (~130 ms round-trip) compared to traditional geostationary satellites (~600 ms)  
- Launched using the reliable **Soyuz-2.1b** rocket, marking international cooperation in commercial space ventures  
- Operates within a scalable constellation model allowing flexible bandwidth allocation  
- Supports both **fixed and mobile services**, including maritime and aviation sectors  

## Body  

### Mission Overview  
O3B FM7 is part of the O3b Networks constellation, originally developed to connect the “other three billion” people who lack adequate internet access. The satellite operates in a **medium Earth orbit (MEO)** at approximately **8,000 km altitude**, offering reduced signal delay over conventional geostationary systems.

### Technical Specifications  
- **Orbit Type**: Medium Earth Orbit (MEO)  
- **Altitude**: ~8,000 kilometers  
- **Inclination**: 0 degrees (equatorial orbit)  
- **Operational Band**: Ka-band  
- **Design Life**: Approximately 7–10 years  

### Launch Details  
- **Launch Date**: July 10, 2014  
- **Launch Site**: Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz, Kourou, French Guiana  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-2.1b with Fregat upper stage  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2014-038B  
- **SCN/NORAD ID**: 40080  

### Operational Role  
As part of the O3b constellation, O3B FM7 delivers broadband services to users in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean. It supports applications like:  
- Internet service provision to rural ISPs  
- Offshore oil and gas exploration platforms  
- Maritime and aviation communication  
- Emergency response and disaster recovery  

### Ownership & Management  
The satellite is owned and operated by **SES S.A.**, following its acquisition of O3b Networks in 2016. SES continues to expand and evolve the system under its broader SES Networks division.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report