# O3B PFM
**Wikidata**: [Q16086452](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16086452)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/o3b-pfm

## Summary
O3B PFM is a communications satellite launched on June 25, 2013, as part of the O3b Networks constellation to provide high-speed internet connectivity to underserved regions. It was deployed into orbit using a Soyuz-2.1b rocket from the Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz launch site. As a member of the O3b class, it plays a key role in delivering low-latency broadband services via medium Earth orbit satellites.

## Key Facts
- Launched on **June 25, 2013** using a **Soyuz-2.1b** rocket
- COSPAR ID: **2013-031D**
- Satellite Catalog Number (SCN): **39191**
- Instance of: **Communications satellite**
- Launch site: **Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz**
- Part of the **O3b Networks** satellite constellation
- Operated by **SES S.A.** (parent company of O3b Networks)
- Designed for use in **Medium Earth Orbit (MEO)**
- Wikipedia coverage available in **Latvian** and **Portuguese**

## FAQs
### Q: What is O3b PFM used for?
A: O3b PFM is a communications satellite used to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet access to remote and underserved areas around the world. It is part of the O3b constellation, which bridges the digital divide by providing reliable broadband services.

### Q: When was O3b PFM launched?
A: O3b PFM was launched on **June 25, 2013**, from the Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz spaceport.

### Q: Who built or operates O3b PFM?
A: O3b PFM was operated by **O3b Networks**, a subsidiary of **SES S.A.**, a global satellite operator based in Luxembourg.

## Why It Matters
O3b PFM represents a critical component of efforts to expand global internet access through innovative satellite technology. By operating in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), rather than traditional geostationary orbits, O3b satellites like PFM offer significantly reduced latency—making internet services more responsive and suitable for applications such as video conferencing, online education, and telemedicine. This approach has enabled improved connectivity for communities in developing nations and isolated regions where terrestrial infrastructure is lacking. Its deployment marked a major step forward in SES’s mission to democratize global broadband access.

## Notable For
- Being part of the pioneering **O3b MEO satellite constellation** aimed at reducing internet latency
- Providing **low-latency broadband service** compared to traditional GEO satellites
- Supporting **global development goals** by connecting underserved populations
- Utilizing the **Soyuz-2.1b launch system**, known for reliability and cost efficiency
- Representing early progress toward SES's broader vision of seamless global connectivity

## Body

### Mission Overview
O3b PFM was developed under the O3b ("Other 3 Billion") initiative with the goal of bringing affordable, high-performance internet to unconnected and underserved populations worldwide. The satellite supports voice, video, and data services tailored for enterprise, government, and community users in challenging geographic locations.

### Technical Specifications
- **Satellite Class**: Communications satellite  
- **Orbit Type**: Medium Earth Orbit (MEO)  
- **Catalog Number (SCN)**: 39191  
- **COSPAR ID**: 2013-031D  

The satellite was engineered to operate alongside other members of the O3b constellation to form a robust network capable of delivering fiber-like performance without requiring extensive ground-based infrastructure.

### Launch Details
- **Launch Date**: June 25, 2013  
- **Launch Vehicle**: Soyuz-2.1b  
- **Launch Site**: Ensemble de Lancement Soyouz  
- **Event Type**: Rocket launch  

This successful launch placed O3b PFM into its operational orbit, enabling it to begin transmitting broadband signals shortly after deployment.

### Operational Context
As part of the O3b constellation, O3b PFM contributed to SES’s strategy of offering scalable, flexible, and fast satellite communication solutions. These satellites were later succeeded by the O3b mPOWER next-generation system, but O3b PFM played a foundational role during its active years in expanding global connectivity options.

### Legacy and Impact
O3b PFM helped establish the viability of MEO-based internet delivery systems, influencing future developments in both commercial and humanitarian satellite communications. Its success laid groundwork for SES’s continued investment in advanced MEO constellations designed to meet growing demand for ubiquitous, high-quality internet access.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report