In part two, we continue the conversation with Foster and Welch and dive further into the ways in which early adopters of IFC technologies like 2Ku are positioning themselves for the next wave of advancements, including low Earth orbit (LEO) and multi-orbit systems. Additionally, Foster and Welch break down how airlines are using IFC to improve operational efficiency and offer premium connectivity in strategic routes to exceed passenger expectations.

In both business and commercial aviation, seamless inflight connectivity (IFC) is becoming an expectation rather than luxury. In this episode of the Satellite World Briefing, our host discussed the evolving landscape of IFC with Valour Consultancy Co-Founders & Senior Consultants Craig Foster and Daniel Welch.

With the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) conference just around the corner, Foster and Welch dove into the latest trends shaping the industry, ranging from the impact of emerging technologies like next-generation air-to-ground and satellite networks to shifting passenger expectations. They also discussed how airlines and business aviation operators are adapting to meet the growing demand for connectivity, the role of loyalty programs in justifying IFC investments, and how advanced satellite solutions are democratizing high-speed connectivity for smaller aircrafts globally.

In this episode, of the Satellite World Briefing, host Lucas Hunsicker sits down with Greg Quiggle, Senior Vice President of Product Management at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, to discuss the groundbreaking potential of SDS and the changes that need to be made on the ground to unlock their power. In our conversation with Greg, you will hear how these next-generation satellites are revolutionizing connectivity by enabling unprecedented flexibility to adapt in real time to shifting demands which ultimately leads to improved performance, better economics, and much better coverage around the world.

As we launch in 2025, the Satellite World Briefing podcast looks back on the impactful conversations that shaped 2024. Our episodes looked at cutting-edge satellite technology reshaping industries and unlocking new opportunities. From innovations in smart farming and inflight connectivity to the evolution of new space ecosystems and the ubiquitous network of the future, the Satellite World Briefing explored the top satellite and space news of today. Join our host Lucas Hunsicker as he reviews the key events that highlight how advancing technologies from space are shaping our world of tomorrow.

We’re taken on a journey into the future of telecommunications in the latest episode of The Satellite World Briefing, where the boundaries between satellite and cellular networks are blurred to create a seamless, connected world. Industry leaders Gerry Collins, Director of Product Management, and Ken Takagi, Director of Business Development join host Lucas Hunsicker to unpack the ambitious vision of the “Ubiquitous Network,” a transformative innovation that aims to deliver a global, high- performance broadband experience, seamlessly delivered through a single device regardless of the boundaries of today’s existing mobile networks.

In the latest episode of the Satellite World Briefing, our host speaks with Gerry Collins, Director of Product Management at Intelsat, and explores the innovative efforts in motion to integrate Ku-band frequency into 5G networks – a move led by Intelsat and set to revolutionize connectivity in underserved remote areas while opening opportunities for mobile network operators (MNOs)to protect their position in the marketplace and deliver more value to customers. Collins shares how Ku-band integration will provide mobile network operators with the tools they need to expand high-speed coverage well beyond the limitations of traditional networks while also moving us closer to interoperability across the space and cellular markets to create a more seamless customer experience.

Ku-band integration will ultimately enable MNOs to support a variety of applications ranging from seamless roaming for vehicles in motion, from connected cars to heavy equipment and tractors to IoT devices on farms. Collins described how this integration makes it possible for users to switch between satellite and terrestrial networks without interruption, with a single device and billing account. Additionally, he discussed multi-orbit functionality, where satellites in different orbits fulfill specific needs – offering low latency for high demand applications and reliable coverage in more challenging locations.

Inflight internet has transformed the passenger experience, with advanced technologies like multi-orbit networks, electronically steered antennas, and virtualized systems allowing seamless streaming and browsing. But the benefits don’t stop there. In this episode, we explore how reliable in-flight connectivity enhances airline operations—optimizing routes, boosting efficiency, and ensuring safety for both passengers and crews. We’ll hear from Chad Gill, Principal Product Manager at Intelsat, and TJ Horsager, Captain and Head of the EFB Program at Sun Country Airlines, about how inflight connectivity drives innovation in fuel management, maintenance, scheduling, and air traffic control.

In this episode of the Satellite World Briefing Podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker dives back into the transformative world of smart farming with Laura and Pat Blomme, innovative farmers from Iowa.

The second part of the podcast highlights the remarkable advancements in farming equipment technology. From tractors equipped with sophisticated monitors to seamless data integration, the Blommes share how these innovations enhance efficiency and productivity on their farm. They discuss the critical role of connectivity and data in making informed decisions and optimizing their operations. The episode also addresses the challenges of compatibility between different brands of equipment and the importance of choosing the right technology that aligns with their farm's unique needs. Laura and Pat's insights underscore the incredible potential of satellite technology in smart farming to meet future food demands sustainably while preserving traditional farming values.

With the world expected to add another two billion people by 2050, increasing food demand by 35 to 56 percent, agriculture is facing unprecedented challenges. To meet these demands, a number of farmers are turning to smart farming practices. In this episode of the Satellite World Briefing Podcast, host Lucas Hunsicker takes a deep dive into the world of Laura and Pat Blomme, small-scale farmers from Iowa, to explore how they are not just meeting these challenges but exceeding them. By leveraging satellite data, they optimize crop yields and livestock management while pioneering sustainable farming practices that promise to feed the future while preserving the environment.

Media technology and satellite infrastructure go hand-in-hand, but in today’s evolving landscape where emerging trends are replacing traditional infrastructures, how are satellite providers impacted and how can they evolve? Fred Boxa, Associate Director at AD Little, joins host Lucas Hunsicker to discuss these trends, such as subscription and ad-supported Video on Demand, as well as the challenges satellite providers face in adapting to the merging of traditional linear distribution and on-demand cloud-driven services, and the crucial role of managed services in optimizing costs and streamlining operations for media companies. Focusing on the global impact, this episode offers comprehensive insights into the trends shaping media technology and the pivotal role of satellite providers in shaping its trajectory.