Viasat-3 Experiencing Potentially Fatal Deployment Issues

Viasat, a leading global provider of satellite communications, announced today that an unexpected incident occurred during the deployment of a reflector, potentially impacting the performance of the ViaSat-3 Americas satellite which launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from LC-39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center back in April. The company is currently working with the reflector provider to assess the situation and explore potential remedial measures.

Mark Dankberg, Chairman and CEO of Viasat, expressed disappointment regarding the recent developments. He assured stakeholders that the company is collaborating closely with the reflector manufacturer to resolve the issue. Dankberg extended his gratitude for their dedicated efforts and commitment.

Viasat is proactively devising contingency plans to mitigate any potential economic impact. These plans include optimizing global coverage by redeploying satellites from their extensive fleet and potentially reallocating a future ViaSat-3 class satellite to bolster Americas bandwidth. The primary objective of the ViaSat-3 Americas satellite was to support the expansion of Viasat's North American fixed broadband business.

Fortunately, there have been no disruptions to customers as a result of this event. The coverage and capacity of both the Viasat and Inmarsat constellations currently in service remain unaffected. Following the acquisition of Inmarsat, Viasat has a total of 12 Ka-band satellites already in space, excluding the ViaSat-3 satellite, and an additional eight Ka-band satellites are under construction.

Viasat plans to provide further updates regarding the status of the ViaSat-3 Americas satellite and any necessary contingency plans during its earnings call scheduled for August 9, 2023. The company is committed to transparency and will share additional information as it becomes available.