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Boeing mission controllers confirmed that the ViaSat-3 F3 (VS-3 F3) satellite is healthy in orbit following its launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket at 10:13 a.m. ET from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The satellite is intended to expand high-capacity broadband services across the Asia-Pacific region when it enters service.
VS-3 F3 separated from the rocket about five hours after liftoff. After Boeing’s Mission Control team in El Segundo, California, acquired the satellite’s signal, the team confirmed command capability and began spacecraft initialization.
The spacecraft is the third launched for the ViaSat-3 program and uses Boeing’s 702MP+ platform to support Viasat’s flexible, ultra high-capacity payload.
“The launch of Viasat-3 F3 marks a major milestone in our partnership with Viasat, said Ryan Reid, president of Boeing Satellite Systems International. “By combining Boeing’s best-in-class satellite platform with Viasat’s innovative payload, we’re delivering the highest capacity communication satellites ever launched. This mission reinforces our commitment to advancing global connectivity.”
VS-3 F3 utilizes the 702MP+, part of the 702 family of satellites, with enhanced structural, power, thermal and attitude control systems developed for demanding payloads.
“ViaSat‑3 F3 is a critical step in expanding a truly global, high‑capacity network, and Boeing’s execution brings us closer to delivering seamless connectivity where it matters most for our customers,” said Dave Abrahamian, vice president of Space Systems, Viasat.
Boeing’s tailored 702MP+ powers Viasat’s payload, which is designed to maximize efficient, flexible bandwidth deployment and provide enhanced performance for commercial mobility, fixed services and defense customers.
Following initialization, mission controllers will prepare the satellite for orbit raising by deploying solar arrays produced by Spectrolab, a Boeing subsidiary, and one radiator panel to support the satellite’s electric propulsion. Electric propulsion will enable the spacecraft to reach geostationary orbit with improved fuel efficiency versus traditional chemical propulsion, supporting its required operational lifetime. After arrival in geostationary orbit and completion of on-orbit testing, Boeing will hand the satellite over to Viasat for service entry.
