Satellite initiative launched by Orange in Wallis and Futuna, named Nuanua project
In a significant move to enhance digital connectivity in the remote French overseas territory of Wallis and Futuna, Orange and SES have announced the Nuanua project. This satellite connectivity initiative aims to modernize the existing satellite network using SES's high-performance O3b mPOWER system [1].
The Nuanua project, meaning "rainbow" in Wallisian, is designed to provide faster, more reliable internet access to residents and businesses in Wallis and Futuna. The territory, located in the South Pacific, currently faces limitations with its traditional terrestrial networks, making this project a much-needed solution [2].
Orange, through its subsidiary Orange Wallis & Futuna, is responsible for operating international networks for the Wallis and Futuna Islands on behalf of the French government. The Nuanua project is anticipated to deliver a reliable, sustainable, and high-performance connectivity solution, supporting economic development, education, healthcare, and communication for the local population [3].
To ensure sustainability, the Nuanua project incorporates the installation of solar panels, covering an area of 170 m2, to optimize power supply and minimize the carbon footprint of the Orange group [4]. This emphasis on sustainability is a key aspect of the project, reflecting Orange's commitment to connecting remote territories and enhancing essential digital services which encourage economic and social development [5].
Nadine Allen, the global head of enterprise and cloud at SES, expresses delight in partnering with Orange on the Nuanua project. She emphasizes the importance of the project for sustainable connectivity in Wallis and Futuna [6]. The Nuanua project is co-financed by the European Union under the "Connecting Europe Facilities - Digital" programme, highlighting its significance for digital inclusion in the Pacific region [7].
The Nuanua project's capacity to scale up is another key aspect, as it aims to replace the existing satellite infrastructure of the Wallis and Futuna Islands with SES's second-generation MEO O3b mPOWER system. This upgrade will not only enhance the diversity and resilience of essential connectivity but also strengthen the digital sovereignty of Wallis and Futuna [8].
The Nuanua project is scheduled for completion within six months, with an expected operational date by the end of the first half of 2025 [9]. The project will provide the territory with a reliable, sustainable, and high-performance connectivity solution, overcoming the current limitations posed by the archipelago's reliance on one submarine cable [10].
In conclusion, the Nuanua project represents a significant step forward in digital connectivity for Wallis and Futuna. By leveraging advanced satellite technology, the project aims to support economic development, education, healthcare, and communication for the local population, while also emphasizing sustainability and digital sovereignty.
[1] SES Press Release [2] Wallis and Futuna Islands: Internet Access [3] Orange Press Release [4] Orange Press Release [5] Orange Press Release [6] SES Press Release [7] Orange Press Release [8] SES Press Release [9] Orange Press Release [10] Wallis and Futuna Islands: Internet Access
According to the plans, the Nuanua project – a collaboration between Orange and SES – will implement science and technology to transform the internet access in Wallis and Futuna by upgrading their existing satellite network with SES's O3b mPOWER system, thereby modernizing and enhancing essential digital services. The space-and-astronomy technology employed in this project will foster economic development, education, healthcare, and communication in the region.
