Subsea Cables & Internet Infrastructure

The LEO satellite business model is one of the most interesting topics in telecommunications today. LEO satellites are not a 'new technology'. It is really just a new approach to providing Internet access without any intellectual or patent moat to prevent the entry of new competitors. There could be a know how moat, but the number of LEO satellite networks entering the market over the next 5 year suggests it is very shallow. LEO satellites provide Last Mile access using low Earth orbits ranging from 300 kilometers (180 US miles) to 2,000 kilometers (1200 miles). Each bird as they are affectionately called in the industry takes only 90 to 120 minutes to complete an orbit. Their orbits can take a variety of shapes. For example, a LEO orbit could be elliptical in order to achieve a closer approach to the Earth at some points along the path for more detailed image or data collection. Or the LEO could fly longitudinally from North Pole to South Pole and back again. Hence LEO satelli...