The Story
As low Earth orbit satellite technology redefines how the world connects, Hughes saw an opportunity to lead the next era of communications. To realize that vision, Hughes partnered with M3 to develop its new Electronically Steerable Antenna (ESA), a breakthrough platform designed to make advanced satellite connectivity more accessible, adaptable, and intuitive.
The ESA was envisioned as more than a product. It was a strategic tool for global growth. M3 crafted a design language that conveys technological sophistication and enduring reliability while simplifying installation and use. Built to withstand extreme climate conditions and perform wherever connectivity is needed, the ESA positions Hughes to expand its reach and stand apart in a rapidly evolving market.
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Start of Partnership
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Industries Served
Every moment without connectivity in the field is a moment of risk—whether that’s lost revenue, delayed response, or compromised safety. We designed our ESA terminals for the real world
Royce Hernandez
VP, Mobility Products
M3 recognized an opportunity to establish a design language that would differentiate Hughes within a competitive market, strengthen brand equity, and increase visibility across its growing product portfolio. Beyond creating a recognizable visual identity, the design language integrated functional design elements that improved usability and enhanced product performance. M3 also developed a configurable product architecture capable of adapting to multiple applications, creating a flexible platform that simplifies installation, serviceability, and operation for customers, installers, and service technicians alike.
Connectivity doesn't happen in a single environment, and neither does the ESA. Designed to operate everywhere from remote facilities to moving vehicles, the platform adapts to the unique demands of each application while maintaining a consistent user experience. Through a configurable architecture, flexible mounting options, and scalable system configurations, M3 created a solution capable of evolving with customer needs while simplifying installation, serviceability, and long-term deployment.
What began as a technical requirement became a defining design opportunity. To manage heat without the complexity of moving components, M3 integrated a passive heat sink into the product architecture and transformed it into a signature design feature, where form and function work together to create both visual distinction and superior performance.
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The Power of Visualization
An M3 superpower is the ability to visualize what doesn't yet exist. Through a variety of different media, M3’s designers collaborated with the Hughes team to rapidly explore ideas, align on a shared vision, and bring future possibilities into focus.
Early Concept Evaluation
Physical prototyping played a critical role throughout M3's design process, enabling the team to validate assumptions, gather meaningful feedback, reduce risk, and make informed design decisions with confidence.
Technical Feasibility
The ESA's large heatsink was essential for thermal management, presenting an opportunity to turn a functional necessity into a signature design element. Through close collaboration with Hughes, M3 engineered a solution that balanced performance requirements with a bold and recognizable aesthetic.
Context of Use Studies
M3 leveraged AR and VR to simulate real-world challenges Hughes customers may encounter when using the ESA product. This immersive approach enabled the team to evaluate and refine the design in greater detail before Hughes invested in functional prototypes.
Design & Engineering Collaboration
A thoughtfully engineered form that guides users through the installation process while maintaining the product’s sleek, modern look and feel.
From early visualization and concept development through ergonomic analysis, technical validation, and refinement, M3 helped Hughes bring clarity to complexity, creating an ESA solution that balances innovation, usability, performance, and aesthetic appeal.
The resulting design language establishes a recognizable and scalable platform that enables Hughes to expand its portfolio of connectivity solutions while strengthening brand recognition across future products.
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