Norway to launch satellites offering broadband through Arctic

Two Norwegian satellites are set to be launched in mid-July to provide broadband to the Arctic, the Norwegian government announced on Thursday, reported Xinhua.

The satellites, each measuring 3x3x4 meters with a wingspan of 27 meters and weighing approximately 3.5 metric tons, will be launched aboard a SpaceX rocket.

According to the government's statement, the satellites will benefit various Arctic operators, including aircraft, research vessels, fishing vessels, cruise ships, the coast guard, and expeditions.

"This is Norway's largest space project to date and marks the beginning of a new era for Norwegian space travel. Once the satellites are in the correct orbit and all settings are adjusted, they will provide broadband communication throughout the Arctic," Norwegian Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram said in the statement.

The satellites have an expected lifespan of around 15 years.