SES S.A. is a satellite telecommunications operator headquartered in Betzdorf, Luxembourg. Known to the European public through the ASTRA brand, the group also provides communications infrastructure for professional users. Its networks carry television programmes and data, particularly where terrestrial networks are insufficient or unavailable. Its corporate website is ses.com.
From a Luxembourg project to a global network
Founded in 1985 under the name Société européenne des satellites, the company helped drive the growth of satellite television in Europe. The launch of ASTRA 1A in 1988 marked a foundational milestone: direct-to-home satellite broadcasting opened up new opportunities for television channels and made them easier to receive in households equipped with a satellite dish.
SES subsequently expanded its coverage and activities through investments and acquisitions. In 2016, taking full control of O3b Networks strengthened its position in medium Earth orbit connectivity. The acquisition of Intelsat, completed in 2025, continued this consolidation and expanded its capabilities and commercial presence. This trajectory gradually transformed a company historically associated with broadcasting into a provider of diversified space infrastructure.
Two types of orbit, multiple markets
The SES technical model relies on the complementary strengths of geostationary satellites and medium Earth orbit satellites. The former cover vast areas and are particularly well suited to audiovisual broadcasting. The latter, being closer to Earth, reduce transmission delays compared with geostationary orbit, an important consideration for interactive applications and professional uses.
The O3b constellation and its new generation, O3b mPOWER, which entered commercial service in 2024, embody this focus on data transmission. SES sells satellite capacity as well as connectivity services that combine space infrastructure, ground stations and network management.
Its customers include broadcasters, telecom operators, maritime and aviation service providers, and public bodies. Uses range from distributing television channels to connecting ships, aircraft and remote sites. Satellites can also complement terrestrial networks or serve as backup links.
What next?
SES must navigate changing audiovisual consumption patterns and competition from low Earth orbit constellations. Its development depends in particular on its ability to turn its space investments into reliable services tailored to its customers’ availability and security requirements.
Integrating Intelsat is another undertaking, both operationally and commercially. In this context, the complementary strengths of different orbits, mobile connectivity and institutional needs offer opportunities, without removing the sector’s constraints: launch costs, satellite replacement and pressure on prices.