Faster broadband closer

O3b Networks, the company with which Telecom Cook Islands signed a deal to deliver fast broadband to the Cooks, has secured all the funding to complete building and launching its satellite.
On Monday (U.K time) it announced that it had raised a total of US$1.2 billion - enough to fully fund the construction, launch and commissioning of its constellation of eight satellites. These satellites are great news for the Cook Islands they can provide low-latency, fibre-quality internet connectivity for remote locations.
This announcement is hugely significant for the Cook Islands, according to Telecom Cook Islands CEO, Jules Maher. “Any lingering doubts that O3b would not fly are now extinguished”. He said “Confirmation of funding means the consortium can now work toward a firm launch date, and we in the Cook Islands can also plan with more certainty” he said. “While the delayed launch date of May 2013 for full commercial service is disappointing (it was originally supposed to be available from July 2012), there are several things Telecom can do between now and 2013 to progressively improve customer’s internet access” he added.
Telecom recently increased satellite capacity by 50% and will look at increasing this again in 2011. Telecom also expects to announce new internet plans in early 2011 that will give customers more value and choice. Telecom is also working closely with its key clients, who are generally the biggest broadband users, to help their transition to faster, cheaper internet services.
This new satellite constellation orbits the earth at only a quarter of the distance of conventional satellites (8000kms vs 36,000kms) providing faster better services. The funding is being provided by international heavyweights such as HSBC, Google, Liberty Global, North Bridge Venture Partners, Allen and Company as well as several new investors.
The full text of O3b’s media statement is available at: http://www.o3bnetworks.com/Media_Centre/press_release_details.aspx?id=67

Headlines : Times 290 02 March 2009
- Lucky $1,000 winner
- Century old palm trees and the French connection
- Koutu Nui takes part in Raui meeting in Moorea
- WOM Award Dinner for Ake Hosea-Winterflood
- Island of Atiu to host Koutu Nui AGM in June 2009