Thaicom, a prominent Asian satellite operator and space tech firm, has achieved a significant milestone. The relocation of the Thaicom-9A Satellite to the 50.5 degrees East orbital position has been successfully carried out. This satellite arrived at its designated location on November 22nd.

Thaicom's Orbital Move Paves Way for Growth

Relocation Process and Mission

The relocation of the Thaicom-9A Satellite is an integral part of Thaicom's mission to ensure Thailand's rightful use of the 50.5 degrees East orbital slot. This slot is set to expire on November 27th. Thaicom's subsidiary, TC Space Connect Company Limited (TCSC), participated in the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) Orbital Slot Licensee Selection Process and was granted the right to use this orbital slot for a remarkable 20-year period. The top priority was to safeguard Thailand's rights to the orbital slot.However, due to the limited timeframe, which typically takes over three years for the satellite manufacturing process, Thaicom had to collaborate with an international partner. An existing in-orbit communication satellite was acquired and drifted to the 50.5 degrees East orbital slot. Once it arrived, the satellite was named Thaicom-9A and is scheduled to commence operations in the first quarter of 2025.

Service Coverage and Expansion Plans

The 50.5 degrees East orbital position offers extensive service coverage, reaching both Europe and Asia regions, including Thailand. Initially, Thaicom will focus on providing satellite services to Thailand and targeted Asian countries. In the future, there are plans to expand business opportunities further west, encompassing Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. This strategic expansion will enable Thaicom to tap into new markets and drive the growth of Thailand's space industry.Patompob (Nile) Suwansiri, the Chief Executive Officer at Thaicom, expressed his satisfaction, stating, "We have successfully completed the mission to secure Thailand's right to use the 50.5 degrees East orbital slot before its expiration on November 27th, 2024. By drifting an existing satellite acquired from our international partner, we have enhanced Thailand's competitive position. This will allow Thaicom to expand into new market opportunities and contribute to the development of Thailand's space industry."