Shahjahan Mahmood, Chairman of Bangladesh Satellite Company Ltd, announced plans for the launch of Bangladesh’s second satellite within the next two to three years. The satellite, designated as the Bangladesh Earth Observatory Satellite, is anticipated to provide invaluable services including disaster monitoring, agricultural resource management, and environmental assessment.
Speaking at the sixth anniversary celebration of the successful launch of Bangabandhu-1, the country’s inaugural communication satellite, Mahmood disclosed that the finalization of the deal for the second satellite is imminent within the next two to three months.
Optimism surrounds the extension of Bangabandhu-1’s operational lifespan by an additional three years, totaling 18 years, owing to its efficient deployment in May 2018 under a project valued at Tk2,765.66 crore.
Currently, Bangabandhu-1 facilitates broadcasting for 40 private television stations, three state-run Bangladesh Television channels, and recently introduced Television Rating Point services. Additionally, 26 foreign TV channels utilize the satellite for broadcasting purposes.
In a significant development in September 2023, a Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed between Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) and Airbus Defence and Space SAS, France, marking progress towards the Bangabandhu-2 Earth Observation Satellite System. This collaboration underscores Bangladesh’s commitment to navigating the challenges posed by the fourth industrial revolution.
The announcement garnered attention during its revelation at the Karobi Hall of the Prime Minister’s Office in the presence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and French President Emmanuel Macron. Notable figures including Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud, State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak, and Abu Hena Morshed Zaman, Secretary to Posts and Telecom Division, echoed support for the initiative.
