The future of satellite connectivity: GEO vs LEO

The increasing demand for high-speed internet, ubiquitous connectivity and emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) have made satellite connectivity an essential component for businesses in remote areas. Satellites are crucial for providing connectivity to rural locations, such as in mining or in the offshore energy sector, where the fibre grid has not been established.

Two significant types of satellites that dominate the industry are Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. Both types have a lot to offer as they promise to improve connectivity in remote South Africa, particularly where fibre infrastructure is not feasible or viable. While GEO satellites are already commonly used in remote South Africa, LEO satellites are now in the testing phase.

GEO vs LEO satellites

GEO satellites are located approximately 36 000km above the earth's surface and are ideal for providing continuous coverage over a wide area. These satellites have been used for decades for services such as television broadcasting and weather monitoring. One of the most significant advantages of GEO satellites is their ability to provide high-quality, continuous coverage of large areas.

GEO satellites positioned at a fixed location above the equator can cover large areas of the earth, including remote regions, where terrestrial communication infrastructure may be limited or absent.

Compared to GEO satellites, LEO satellites are much closer to the earth’s surface. Located between 160 km and 2000 km above ground, they are designed to provide high-speed connectivity with low latency. These satellites are ideal for providing broadband internet to remote locations where other connectivity mediums such as fibre or LTE is not apparent.

Limitations of GEO vs LEO

Due to the significant distance between the satellite and the earth's surface, GEO connections have a higher latency than LEO connections, making them less suitable for real-time applications. GEO satellites also have limited bandwidth, which can lead to slower speeds during peak usage. What’s more, adverse weather conditions can interfere with GEO signals, leading to service interruptions or degraded performance.

However, despite the significant cost involved in launching and operating LEO constellations, the demand for connectivity in rural South Africa is driving deployment. We are currently witnessing a push by telecommunications and internet service providers to extend their networks in the “race to serve the last mile”.

Practical applications of satellite connectivity

Both LEO and GEO satellites offer significant benefits to the mining industry in South Africa. With their ability to provide real-time earth observation and remote sensing data, LEO satellites enable mining companies to monitor mining activities, track environmental impact and manage resources more effectively. As more LEO constellations go live in South Africa, the local industry will be able to use data more efficiently.

For instance, to provide connectivity to IoT devices used at mines as well as general office work that takes place in these remote areas

Will satellite connectivity replace fibre?

While satellite connectivity has its advantages in providing internet access in rural areas, it falls short when compared to fibre-optic infrastructure. Fibre networks offer higher bandwidth, lower latency and greater reliability, making them ideal for high-speed data transfers.

However, in remote or underserved areas, satellite connectivity can be a viable solution to provide internet access and connect rural communities and industries. It can play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide, bringing online connectivity to remote areas where other options may be limited.

If your company is looking for seamless connectivity, including satellite or fibre connectivity, get in touch with SEACOM Business. For more information or to get a quote for our connectivity solutions, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM operates Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including multiple subsea cables and secure internet connections tracing both sides of the continent. This is partnered with broad terrestrial fibre networks in Southern and East Africa, extending services to these regions.

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