Space Norway orders THOR 8 satellite. Photo: Space Norway

Space Norway has ordered a new Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellite – THOR 8, well over a decade after it signed a contract for THOR 7. Thales Alenia Space will build the satellite.

Thales Alenia Space will be responsible for the design, manufacture, testing, and delivery of the satellite, which will have three dedicated payloads on the Ku- and Ka-bands. THOR 8 will be launched in 2027 and will have an in-orbit service life of over 15 years. The two companies announced the contract award on Feb. 10.

The satellite will be located at the 1 degrees West orbital slot. It will aim to meet the growing demand for connectivity and ensure continuity of Space Norway’s broadcasting service over a geographic coverage area from the Nordics to Central and Eastern Europe. THOR 8 will provide satellite connectivity for broadcasters and high-speed internet access for fixed and mobile infrastructure (maritime, terrestrial and aeronautical services) in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Space Norway includes the former business of Telenor Satellite after acquiring the business last year.

“The deployment of the THOR 8 satellite is a significant milestone in our mission to deliver advanced and reliable connectivity solutions. This strategic addition will enhance our capabilities, providing critical services to safeguard the interests of both national and international governments while meeting the demands of our commercial partners. We extend our gratitude to Thales Alenia Space for their long-standing partnership and commitment towards this transformational project,” Morten Tengs, CEO of Space Norway, said in a statement.