nbn launches second satellite to boost regional broadband services 
 

nbn successfully launched its second broadband satellite, Sky Muster™ II into orbit at 7.30am Australian Eastern Daylight Time.                                

Blasting 36,000kms into space from French Guiana Space Centre in South America, the satellite will play a critical role in providing access to fast broadband for around 400,000 Australian homes and businesses. 

Over the coming months it will undergo final technical testing and will soon provide additional data capacity to nbn’s first satellite Sky Muster™ I, which is already helping to bridge the digital divide for thousands of Australians. 

nbn’s Chief Executive Officer, Bill Morrow said: “Today’s successful launch of Sky Muster™ II marks the next step in delivering our world-leading satellite broadband service. This service is already helping to improve healthcare outcomes by connecting remote patients to city specialists, delivering access to a new world of educational opportunities for kids in the bush and increasing productivity for local small businesses. 

“We are ensuring that no Australian is left behind by providing access to fast broadband for those who need it the most.” 

Representing the millions of people who will be connected to the new broadband network, nbn ran a competition offering the chance for Australians to have their face featured on a mosaic-style artwork placed on the nose cone of the rocket, which launched Sky Muster™ II into space. 

Sally Coady, from Canowindra in New South Wales was one of the lucky winners. Her mind was sent into an intergalactic spin today as she watched her selfie blast into orbit after the rocket’s successful lift-off. 

“Watching the launch was an extremely exciting moment as I believe the satellite will open up so many possibilities for country families like us. 

“Knowing that we will soon have our nbn™ Sky Muster service up and running gives me peace of mind as it will allow my children to access online educational resources from home, which will help them to stay competitive with kids in the city,” she said.