Eutelsat Quantum satellite in its packing case in Toulouse

The first commercial telecommunications satellite that can be completely repurposed in orbit is pictured in its packing case in Toulouse.

Developed under an ESA Partnership Project, Eutelsat Quantum will be able to respond to changing demands on Earth during its 15-year lifetime, providing data, communications and entertainment exactly where and when it is wanted.

Rather than broadcast to Earth with fixed beams, it will let people choose where to point their beams. These can move in virtual real time to provide information to passengers on-board moving planes or ships. The beams can also be adjusted at the push of a button, so that more data is delivered when demand surges.

The satellite was developed by ESA with operator Eutelsat and satellite manufacturers Airbus as the prime manufacturer and Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd for the platform.