Viasat reveals problems unfurling huge antenna on powerful new broadband satellite

A next-generation Viasat communications satellite launched atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket on April 30 has run into problems deploying its huge mesh antenna, a key element in the relay station's ability to provide hemispheric access to high-speed internet, company officials said.

In a statement posted Wednesday, the company said "an unexpected event occurred during reflector deployment that may materially impact the performance of the ViaSat-3 Americas satellite."

"Viasat and its reflector provider are conducting a rigorous review of the development and deployment of the affected reflector to determine its impact and potential remedial measures," the statement said.