Another design aspect to Quantum is that they will be able to transform in orbit. Commands from the ground will be carried out by the satellite which will adapt its coverage, frequency band, power use and change in orbital position. This chameleon-like ability to adapt is said to make Quantum the first satellite to serve any region of the Earth and adjust to new business without the user having to buy and launch an entirely new satellite.
A spokesperson for the ESA said: "The satellite will never be bought back down to Earth, its lifetime is 15 years and it can be reconfigured as many times as necessary."
The first Quantum satellite is slated to be delivered in 2018. It will be operated by Eutelsat to serve government mobility and data markets. Airbus DS will be the prime contractor, using a new platform from Surrey Satellite Technology. Both developments are supported by the UK Space Agency
Magali Vaissiere, ESA director of telecommunications and integrated applications, said: "The Quantum programme is another excellent PPP (public-private partnership) example. Industry benefits from a new type of satellite in a highly competitive and risk-averse market, the satellite operator benefits from the satellite's advanced features and the ESA Member States who invested in Quantum are ensured maximum return on their support through the development of their respective industries."
