Credit: Pixabay/CC0 public domainFriday's launch by the European Space Agency of the first fully reprogrammable commercial satellite will open the door to a new era in flexible communications.The Eutelsat Quantum uses software-defined technology, which allows users to customize the communications for their specific needs almost in real time. This is in contrast to conventional models, which are "hard-wired" to Earth and can't be reused once they reach orbit.Elodie Viau (the agency's director of telecommunications applications and telecommunications), explained to AFP that satellite launches can lead to changes in demand and markets.We have better prospects if our satellites are not fixed and can adapt to customers' needs.A successful launch would open the door to mass production of satellites. Until now, they have been produced in one-off quantities.The Quantum will launch with the Ariane 5 rocket from Guiana Space Centre in Latin America on Friday between 21:00 and 22:30 GMT.The rocket will launch a conventional satellite for Brazil's Embratel in addition to the Quantum. It will be operated by Paris-based Eutelsat.ESA stated that the Quantum can be programmed from orbit at 35,000 km (22,000 miles) above Earth. This allows it to respond to changing data transmission requirements and secure communications over its 15-year lifespan.Quantum's 3.5-tonne Quantum model comes with eight communication beams. Each can be changed to alter its coverage area and the power of the telecommunications signals it emits.These changes can be made using software provided to customers, according to Eutelsat.The satellite can also be used to provide mobile coverage of moving objects, such as planes or oceangoing vessels, as well to provide coverage following a natural disaster or other one-off events.Viau stated that Quantum can pinpoint the source of signals "emitted without malicious intent or with security concerns" and take appropriate action to correct the problem. Viau spoke at a press conference on Thursday.The Quantum will be covering a vast area between West Africa and Asia for 15 years.Further information about the Reprogrammable satellites that were shipped to the launch site2021 AFP
