ESOA, the association of the European satellite operators, was formed in March 2002 to ensure that satellite services have their role in the upcoming e-society.

Satellites, although commonly associated with hi-tech specialised applications, are actually already part of our everyday life. Almost 60% of European households today receive television either through a satellite antenna or though cable connection to a satellite spearhead.

Despite the pervasive character of satellite services and the potential they offer in allowing democratic and economical broadband access, this technology is too often relegated to an ancillary role in the minds of regulators and policy makers.

Working together through ESOA, the satellite operators of Europe wish to reassert the democratic nature of satellite-delivered services and their pivotal role in making telecommunications available to the peoples of Europe and beyond. Satellite communications bridge the once inevitable digital divide, which would otherwise undermine the emergence of a truly global information society.

Founding members of ESOA are:EurasiaSat SAM , Europe*Star, Eutelsat S.A., Hellassat, Hispasat, Inmarsat Ventures PLC, New Skies Satellites NV, Nordic Satellite AB, SES GLOBAL, Telenor and Telespazio.

Supporting members of ESOA are Arianespace and Alcatel Space.

The European Satellite Operators Association asbl (reg. no. 93652002), is a non-profit association registered under the law of Belgium.