THAICOM-9A Secures 50.5°E Slot

The satellite arrived at its designated slot on November 22, 2024, just days before Thailand’s rights to the orbital slot were set to expire on November 27.

The relocation forms a crucial part of Thaicom’s mission to safeguard Thailand’s claim to the orbital position. TC Space Connect Company Limited (TCSC), a Thaicom subsidiary, secured a 20-year license for the slot through the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission’s (NBTC) selection process. The move underscores efforts to preserve Thailand’s orbital rights while enabling long-term satellite operations.

Faced with time constraints that make building a new satellite unfeasible—an average process of over three years—Thaicom has collaborated with an international partner to reposition an existing in-orbit communication satellite to the 50.5 degrees east orbital slot.

Patompob (Nile) Suwansiri, Chief Executive Officer of Thaicom, noted that this achievement would enhance Thailand’s competitive standing, open new market opportunities for Thaicom, and support the growth of the country’s space industry.

The satellite, now named THAICOM-9A, is set to begin operations in the first quarter of 2025.

The satellite’s service coverage spans Europe and Asia, including Thailand. Thaicom’s initial focus will be on providing satellite services to Thailand and select Asian markets, with plans to explore business opportunities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East in the near future.