In 1985 SES was founded as Europe’s first private satellite operator. Although the company was founded as SES, it would become better known under its brand name Astra – named after its first satellite Astra 1A. Headquartered in Luxembourg, SES is now a world-leading satellite operator, providing reliable and secure satellite communications solutions to broadcast, telecom, corporate and government customers worldwide.
It owns and operates a fleet of 56 geostationary satellites that are complemented by a network of teleports and offices located around the globe. This far-reaching infrastructure enables our customers to reach 99% of the world’s population and places SES at the heart of the global communications chain.
Listed on Euronext Paris and on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange SES has a number of global divisions, one of which is SES Satellite Leasing Ltd. which has been based in the Isle of Man since September 2004.
Today, SES Satellite Leasing owns 13 satellites currently in operation over North American, Africa, Indian Ocean, Asia, Pacific Ocean and the Nordic region.
While SES Satellite Leasing satellites are predominately used for media, enterprise and governmental coverage, they are also used as a satellite resource in disaster situations.
SES Satellite Leasing is currently in the process of procuring two further satellites, which are planned to be launched in 2016-17. Additionally SES Satellite Leasing continues to investigate new business opportunities to further enhance the SES fleet of satellites.
The company believes it has a responsibility to support projects that contribute to the development of a communications-based society and a knowledge-based economy. Progress in this area will lead to more resilient and flexible economic structures, will contribute to social mobility and to the emergence of more sustainable economic development models.
SES is proud of the range of corporate social responsibility projects and activities that it has implemented in geographic areas where the company has commercial activities, provides communication services or otherwise interacts with local communities.
SES has in the past supported an executive MBA programme at the International Institute of Space Commerce (IISC) based in the Isle of Man. The IISC is an off-shoot of the ISU (Strasbourg, France), and the programme benefited students from the Isle of Man.
Motor cycle enthusiasts will no doubt be aware that SES is a regular sponsor of the TT Zero electric bike race. The TT Zero pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved and represents a passion for technological excellence. These are qualities that fit well with SES’s ethos.
SES Satellite Leasing is pleased to be part of the Island of Culture 2014 celebrations which will showcase the history of the Isle of Man. The numerous events being organised will allow students the opportunity to learn the history of the island. SES Satellite Leasing has sponsored the transport which will allow all schools to attend one of the planned events.
Managing director Jim Hughes said: ‘SES is an innovative international organisation and, as such, education is important to our continued success. The Isle of Man is a place with a rich history and cultural heritage and the Island of Culture 2014 will allow schools better access to this heritage. SES Satellite Leasing is proud to be able to contribute to this worthwhile venture.’
Photo - Jim Hughes, SES managing director
