STOCKHOLM, Oct 20 (Reuters) - Eutelsat (ETL.PA), the world's third-biggest satellite operator by revenue, launched 20 satellites for its communications network on Sunday, using Elon Musk's SpaceX in its first move since the merger of two European companies last year.

Eutelsat (OTCPK:EUTLF) (OTCPK:ETCMY)—the world’s third-biggest satellite operator by revenue—launched its first batch of satellites using the SpaceX (SPACE) Falcon 9 rocket, marking a significant milestone following its merger with OneWeb.

The space company is set to launch its Falcon 9 rocket carrying 20 Starlink satellites at 7:31 p.m. Thirteen of the satellites will be carrying Direct to Cell capabilities. It will blast off into orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Another launch opportunity will be on Saturday, Oct. 19, at 7:06 p.m.

SpaceX launched two Starlink satellite missions just hours apart today (Oct. 15), one of which was the company's 100th liftoff of the year.

The liftoff is targeted for 7:31 p.m., but if additional time is needed, Saturday at 7:06 p.m. will be available.

SpaceX launched 20 more of its Starlink broadband satellites, including 13 with direct-to-cell capability, from Florida tonight (Oct. 18).