Sky to fast forward move to new satellite

Monday, 19 August 2024

Sky Television is to push fast forward on an alternative satellite option after being told there would be a delay to satellite supply provided by Australian firm Optus, due next year.

Sky announced on Monday it had been told the Optus 11 satellite that was expected to be ready for service in late 2025 had experienced further manufacturing delays, and the earliest Optus expected to offer access to it was during 2027.

Meanwhile Optus had also told Sky that, following recent fuel assessments, the end of the commercial operation of the Optus D2 satellite had been brought forward to May 2025.

Sky was already working to transition from its current satellite to a new software-enabled satellite and said it was confident it can achieve migration to an alternative satellite by May 2025.

“Sky considers that there is a possibility for further delay but does not anticipate any disruption to its satellite supply as a result.”

It said it will continue to accelerate its rollout of the new internet-connected Sky Box and the IP-only Sky Pod which, alongside access to companion app Sky Go for all Sky Box customers, would “derisk any potential disruption”.

Sky was working through the accelerated migration options and planning with Optus, saying there was an existing commitment from Optus to provide financial support to undertake the necessary investment required to ensure a seamless transition across the replacement satellite options.

“There remains an inherent technology and logistical risk to the successful migration to an alternative satellite, with on-the-ground technology updates also required. Sky will seek to ensure a smooth transition for customers, including by undertaking significant testing and customer communications ahead of any migration steps.”

Optus has offered Sky two satellite path options to replace Optus D2. Optus will provide Sky with security of supply over satellite services to 2031.