[Satellite Today 09-23-08] Satellite Today News Editor Jeffrey Hill asks on our blog: Google Inc. has thrown money behind O3b Networks‘ low-Earth orbit constellation, which aims to supply emerging markets in Africa with broadband Internet trunking and backhaul.
    O3b’s CEO Greg Wyler said that while O3b itself is not providing any of the ground segment for this ambitious project, several companies would be lining up to do it for them. Gilat is first in line.
    We have seen interest in serving the broadband and other markets in Africa via satellite before, but what will be different this time? What makes a project like this compelling to companies like Google, O3b and Gilat in a difficult market like Africa and an even more difficult and unpredictable global economic environment?

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