Archives for October 2024

GMV has been awarded a contract by the European Space Agency (ESA) to lead the CyberCUBE mission, a key initiative under ESA’s Cybersecurity Operations Centre (CSOC) Cyber Evolutions program.

The GMV-led consortium, which includes GMV’s teams in Romania (prime contractor) and Spain, along with Alén Space will manage the end-to-end lifecycle of the CyberCUBE mission—from specification and design to procurement, assembly, verification, validation, and launch, and LEOP. This mission is a critical step in bolstering the cybersecurity of space-based assets, ensuring they remain resilient against emerging cyber threats in future operations.

The CyberCUBE mission will validate the CSOC’s radio frequency (RF) capabilities and provide a real-world demonstration of sophisticated data analysis tools designed to detect and counter potential cyber threats. In response to the growing need for stronger space cybersecurity, GMV will deliver a cutting-edging on-orbit operational laboratory equipped with innovative onboard cyber capabilities. This platform will support the development, testing, and refinement of cryptographic functions and key management strategies while gathering valuable security data from operational systems.

The CyberCUBE mission aims to offer ESA a cost-effective, reconfigurable cyber capability for demonstrating new technologies in orbit, minimizing risks, and accelerating the adoption of cybersecurity solutions for future ESA missions.

GMV brings a diverse portfolio of products and services to the table, providing ESA with a reliable infrastructure for both the flight and ground segments of the mission. The project will be led by GMV’s Romanian subsidiary, with Alén Space acting as subcontractor and supported by GMV Spain’s expertise in flight software and ground control systems, and in cybersecurity.

GMV’s responsibilities span the entire CyberCUBE mission lifecycle, from development to launch and operations. This includes delivering the flight segment, composed of a 3U cubesat bus provided by Alén Space, equipped with advanced reprogrammable processing capabilities and a core payload for cybersecurity monitoring. The platform will remain operational in orbit for at least one year, collecting essential data on space asset vulnerabilities and cyber resilience.

GMV will also provide components for the ground segment, including the Alén Space Mission Control Center integrated with GMV’s focus suite COTS product, and a representative flatsat. ESA’s CSOC will be the primary user segment, managing mission requests, ingesting raw data, and processing it for cybersecurity analysis.

In addition, GMV will oversee the launch segment, ensuring the cubesat is deployed into the designated orbit. The mission will target orbits that support regular communication with ESA’s primary antenna at the European Space Security and Education Centre (ESEC) in Redu, Belgium.

Following successful commissioning, the LEOP, GMV will transfer control of the CyberCUBE satellite to ESA for nominal operations. The mission’s findings will guide future cybersecurity strategies, and potential extensions will be evaluated based on performance and resource availability.

At the end of its operational life, the CyberCUBE satellite will be decommissioned in accordance with ESA’s Space Debris Mitigation Policy.

Eutelsat America Corp. and OneWeb Technologies Inc (EACOWT), operating in combination as a wholly owned, independent, U.S. proxy company and subsidiary of Eutelsat Group, have entered into a partnership agreement with Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) to provide Iridium Certus® and Iridium® Satellite Time and Location (STL®) services to U.S. government customers.

EACOWT will now offer an enhanced GNSS-resilient, LEO Ku-Band/L-band solution by adding Iridium Certus and Iridium STL services to its portfolio of government services. The solution will enable EACOWT to offer resilient connectivity, alongside out-of-band management solutions for remote terminals.

Leveraging the combined power of Eutelsat OneWeb’s high-speed Ku-band network of 600+ LEO satellites for primary service, along with the ultra-reliable, truly global and weather-resilient L-band Iridium Certus LEO companion service, U.S. government customers can experience unparalleled performance and reliability. The combination of the LEO satellite network with the Iridium STL service delivers a resilient alternate source of positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) information for mission critical operations and for critical government-managed public infrastructure, ensuring the PNT resilience necessary for success in GNSS-challenged environments.

EACOWT is a leading provider of satellite services for the U.S. government and its allies. The company is committed to ensuring customers’ access to the most reliable SATCOM capabilities available.

These groundbreaking services will be accessible to U.S. government through OneWeb Technologies’, and Iridium’s, U.S. Space Force Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (P-LEO) contracts.

“Mission critical operations require continuous connectivity, along with precise and reliable positioning and navigational awareness. Our customers demand uninterrupted communications regardless of their terrain, environment or GPS availability. We are thrilled to add Iridium’s capabilities to deliver the most resilient LEO communications solutions, available even in highly contested environments,” said Kevin Steen, president and CEO of Eutelsat America Corp. and OneWeb Technologies. 

“For years, our customers have been demanding greater diversity and resiliency in support of their operations. The combination of our highly resilient and reliable Iridium Certus and STL services, coupled with EACOWT’s robust, high-speed, low-latency solution, is a significant step forward in addressing the needs of the U.S. government market,” said Scott Scheimreif, executive vice president, government programs, Iridium. “This partnership provides each of our companies the platform for continued innovation to deliver integrated service offerings into the future.”  

ESA has signed a contract for Element #1, the first phase of the HydRON Demonstration System — HydRON, which stands for High thRoughput Optical Network, is set to transform the way data-collecting satellites communicate through the use of laser technology that will allow satellites to connect with each other and ground networks far faster.

ESA has selected Kepler Communications of Canada as prime contractor for Element #1 of HydRON. Element #1 involves creating a ring of ten satellites in LEO, laying the foundational support for communications between third-party satellites and ground users.

The project aims to enable seamless integration of a space data relay transport layer for space assets in different orbits that need to relay their collected data to users on the ground. The following two elements of HydRON will focus on adding satellites in non-LEO orbits as well as adding to the optical ground segment. Once completed, HydRON will aim to provide rapid connections between satellites and terrestrial (ground) data networks. 

Optical communication technologies have the potential to reduce the bottlenecks created by traditional radio frequency systems which are competing for already crowded radio frequency spectra and are subject to heavy regulation. By enabling rapid, high-capacity connections between satellites and ground networks, HydRON will significantly enhance our ability to collect and utilise data from space.  

This capability is particularly crucial for Earth Observation (EO) missions, where large datasets typically need to be downloaded from satellites a few times a day during passes over ground stations. With HydRON, these satellites can connect to the network and transmit data back to Earth much more efficiently, without waiting for specific satellite passes. This advanced system will provide substantial benefits for both government and commercial users, supporting a wide range of applications from environmental monitoring to disaster response. 

The HydRON laser beams can also carry far more data than traditional radio waves. The system is designed to connect seamlessly with the fiber optic networks already in use on Earth, creating a fast and reliable global network. This technology supports advanced 5G networks and enables new technologies such as AI and IoT. HydRON’s capabilities extend beyond improving data transfer from Earth observation satellites. As part of ESA’s broader vision, this technology could be used and adapted to support future missions to the Moon and beyond.

The signing ceremony was attended by Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director General; Laurent Jaffart, ESA Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications; ESA Astronaut Alexander Gerst; Harald Hauschildt, ESA Head of Optical and Quantum Program – ScyLight; Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency; Tuan Huynh, CSA Director General for Space Science & Technology and Mina Mitry, CEO and Co-founder of Kepler Communications Inc. HydRON is also supported by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), which is developing various technologies for the ground and space segments.

“ESA is proud of the HydRON project, which exemplifies the power of European and Canadian collaboration in advancing space technology. With its laser satellite network for lightning-fast internet-like communications, HydRON has the potential to transform how we connect globally, bridging digital divides and enabling secure communications on Earth and beyond,” said Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director General.

“The signing of the Element #1 contract marks a significant milestone in advancing optical and quantum communications in space,” said Laurent Jaffart, ESA’s Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications. “ESA is proud to be supporting future-facing and innovative risk sharing, driving space-based communications and potential future lunar and solar system missions.”

“For 45 years now, Canada’s collaboration with ESA has resulted in opportunities to participate in European space program projects that would otherwise be out of reach. For Canadian companies, having this unique access to the European space market means commercialization prospects and concrete sales, job creation and knowledge-sharing, and international partnerships opportunities. We look forward to continuing this partnership to strengthen the strong synergies between our industrial, academic and government sectors as we advance space science and technology together,” said Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency.

“Kepler is proud to lead the HydRON Element#1 contract, collaborating with TESAT and Airbus to deliver a state-of-the-art optical constellation that will enable the development of terabit-per-second data relay in space. This program is aligned with Kepler’s core mission to extend Internet-like connectivity speed to space and will improve secure access to space-generated data for all ESA member states,” said Mina Mitry, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Kepler.

HydRON falls under ESA’s Optical and Quantum Communications – ScyLight strategic program line, part of the wider ARTES program.

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (“AST SpaceMobile”) (NASDAQ: ASTS) has reported the successful unfolding of its first five commercial satellites, BlueBirds 1-5.

With this significant post-launch technical activity now complete, ahead of schedule at 6 weeks after the launch of the satellites, the BlueBirds are now preparing for commercial and US government operations.

AST SpaceMobile will target 100% nationwide coverage across the United States, providing service through more than 5,600 cells on premium low-band spectrum via strategic partnerships with leading operators like AT&T, Verizon, and Vodafone, among others.

AST SpaceMobile’s technology features large, phased array antennas supported by over 3,450 patent and patent-pending claims. This innovative design aims to extend cellular coverage globally, eliminating dead zones and delivering space-based cellular broadband connectivity to underserved regions. These advanced phased arrays, the largest ever deployed commercially in LEO, connect directly to standard smartphones at broadband speeds. This eliminates the need for specialized equipment, enabling seamless use with existing mobile phones while enhancing and complementing mobile operator networks.

AST SpaceMobile’s technology also offers significant advantages for government applications, with its dual-use capability supporting both communications and non-communications use cases. The company’s innovative approach positions it to deliver advanced space-based solutions for a range of strategic needs, providing scalable, secure, and reliable connectivity to support various government missions.

“The unfolding of the first five commercial satellites is a significant milestone for the company. These five satellites are the largest commercial communications arrays ever launched in low Earth orbit,” said Abel Avellan, Founder, Chairman and CEO of AST SpaceMobile. “It is a significant achievement to commission these satellites, and we are now accelerating our path to commercial activity. The deployment of our first five BlueBird commercial satellites marks just the beginning of our journey. As we prepare for commercial services, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Our team is already hard at work building the next generation of satellites, which will offer ten times the capacity of our current BlueBirds, further transforming mobile connectivity and delivering even greater benefits to our customers and partners worldwide.”

About AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio, and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.

WISeKey International Holding AG (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN) recently announced the company will conduct the second Proof of Concept (PoC) for SEALCOIN by transacting tokens via satellites to IoT devices.

The PoC is set to take place during the launch of a new generation of WISeSat satellites, planned for January of 2025. This milestone, once complete, will represent a major leap forward in secure, autonomous machine-to-machine (M2M) transactions using WISeSat’s current satellite constellation.

The launch of a new generation of WISeSat satellites will feature enhanced operational capabilities specifically designed to support M2M transactions from space. These next generation satellites will further strengthen the WISeSat constellation, enabling secure and efficient decentralized transactions across a wide range of IoT devices, marking a new era in space-based digital ecosystems.

This PoC will demonstrate SEALCOIN’s groundbreaking potential to facilitate decentralized transactions in the growing Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. Leveraging the SEALCOIN platform, the PoC will enable satellite-initiated transactions to IoT devices without human intervention. The tokens, based on Decentralized Ledger Technology (DLT), ensure secure, transparent, and tamper-proof exchanges, driving the creation of a scalable Transactional IoT (t-IoT) infrastructure.

Previously, SEALCOIN successfully conducted a PoC for t-IoT between two devices in early August. This milestone marked a significant step forward in the disintermediation of service providers for interconnected devices, showcasing the transformative potential of SEALCOIN’s innovative platform. For a video presentation of the initial PoC, please visit this direct link…

Transactional-IoT refers to the automated communication and transactions between devices within the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. SEALCOIN’s PoC demonstrates the use of advanced technology embedded within a semiconductor device to validate and verify transactions autonomously. At the heart of this innovation is the Secure Element, an embedded security hardware that protects the private key and certificate representing the device’s unique identity. Leveraging elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) compatible with Hedera’s Decentralized Ledger Technology (DLT), the device can simultaneously authenticate and sign transactions on-chain.

Backed by more than 25 years of experience in cybersecurity and secure semiconductor chips, embedded firmware, and trusted hardware provisioning services, SEALCOIN AG, the WISeKey subsidiary housing the SEALCOIN project, is establishing itself as a trusted partner in safeguarding digital assets. SEALCOIN AG was formed in collaboration with The Hashgraph Group AG, and is poised to revolutionize decentralized services and IoT markets.

The SEALCOIN platform will seamlessly integrate physical security infrastructure with DLT components, bridging the gap between traditional secure systems and the decentralized digital future. The platform will ensure that all autonomous device interactions occur within a transparent, secure ecosystem, with SEALCOIN’s TIOT token serving as the key enabler of these interactions. This system is designed to eliminate bottlenecks and vulnerabilities associated with centralized transaction models, ushering in a new era of M2M transactions.

SEALCOIN’s first PoC was a success, validating the feasibility of M2M transactions within a terrestrial framework. The second PoC will expand this capability to space-based systems, with SEALCOIN tokens transacted via WISeSat’s satellite constellation to IoT devices on the ground. This innovative approach demonstrates the scalability of decentralized infrastructures to handle real-world applications, from energy trading to automated service exchanges.

With SEALCOIN’s TIOT token, IoT devices can autonomously negotiate, execute, and settle transactions securely, without the need for human intervention or centralized intermediaries. This decentralized marketplace allows devices to participate in service-for-payment exchanges and other automated processes, all powered by SEALCOIN’s t-IoT token.

Carlos Moreira, CEO of WISeKey, said, “This PoC marks an important step towards enabling seamless, decentralized M2M transactions from space. With the SEALCOIN token and WISeSat’s satellite infrastructure, we are moving closer to a future where IoT devices can securely and autonomously manage transactions across vast, interconnected ecosystems. The upcoming launch of the new generation of WISeSat satellites in January 2025 will further accelerate our vision of a decentralized, space-powered IoT network.”

SatixFy Communications Ltd. (“SatixFy”) (NYSE American: SATX) has signed a software development and license agreement with MDA Space Ltd. (“MDA Space”) (TSX: MDA) — under the agreement, SatixFy will provide the modem and beamforming software for the SatixFy chipsets to be used in digital satellite broadband LEO payloads and will also provide SatixFy’s software licenses and a development kit to support MDA Space deliveries to customers.

SatixFy’s software and related services are part of its broad offering of digital satellite payload products that include groundbreaking radiation-hardened chipsets with on-board processing and support for multi-beam digital antennas, as well as advanced ground terminals.

The full contract price is $9 million, comprised of $6 million for delivery of the software solution with a license to support an existing MDA Space customer and $3 million for a further license to support future customers. Furthermore, the contract allows for MDA Space to retain an option to be granted access to a part of the code related specifically to the data plane for a further $4 million.

Nir Barkan, Chief Executive Officer of SatixFy, said, “MDA Space has been a steadfast partner to SatixFy and our business with them has grown consistently. We are very pleased with this new contract, and we believe that it will position SatixFy as a market leader and technology provider of both space-grade chips and software for next-generation digital satellite payloads. Our space-grade chips are increasingly becoming a core technology underpinning the communications within many of the next-generation LEO and Geostationary (“GEO”) satellite constellations to be launched in the coming years. This new agreement demonstrates the trust that MDA Space has in our abilities to provide them with a best-of-breed suite of software and services that push the technological boundaries forward in the satellite communications industry. We look forward to further leveraging our expertise to support the satellite communication industry’s ambitious roadmap.”

About SatixFy
SatixFy develops end-to-end next-generation satellite communications systems, including satellite multi beam digital antennas, user terminals and modems, based on powerful chipsets that it develops in house. SatixFy’s products include modems that feature Software Defined Radio (SDR) and Fully Electronically Steered Multi Beam Antennas (ESMA) that support the advanced communications standard DVB-S2X. SatixFy’s innovative ASICs improve the overall performance of satellite communications systems, reduce the weight and power requirements of terminals and payloads, and save real estate for gateway equipment. SatixFy’s advanced VSATs and multi-beam fully electronically steered antenna arrays are optimized for a variety of mobile applications and services, using LEO, MEO and GEO satellite communications systems, for aero/in-flight connectivity systems, communications-on-the-move applications and more. SatixFy is headquartered in Rehovot, Israel with additional offices in the U.S., U.K. and Bulgaria.

Silicon Sensing Systems’ DMU30 high performance inertial measurement unit (IMU) continues to perform within the control system of Japan’s first X-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) small satellite from the Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space, Inc. (iQPS) of Fukuoka, Japan.

On board the iQsdPS satellite the DMU30 commences operation immediately after separation from the launch rocket and continues throughout each mission, working with other systems to monitor and control angular velocity and attitude angle and to assess and correct any rocking motion that occurs as key structures, such as the large antenna, are deployed.

David Somerville, General Manager Silicon Sensign comments, “In this environment our MEMS technology offers key advantages over traditional high-performance inertial options such as fiber optic and ring laser gyro devices.  This IMU can match the performance of a FOG unit but in a much more compact and rugged unit, ideal for severely space and weight limited platforms such as the iQPS satellite — for prolonged operations in extreme environments.”

The iQPS satellite is a 1m resolution, high-performance, X-band SAR-satellite weighing only 100Kg. These are deployed in a group of 36 which, together, offer Earth observation data to support tasks such as disaster management as well as land and infrastructure surveying.

In 2020, Masahiko Uetsuhara, Project Manager, iQPS explained, “Normally a gyro sensor’s output will include errors that appear over time and with severe temperature change and we would need to calibrate for that, but with the DMU30 that calibration is not required.  This reduces man-hours and improves work efficiency, both very important factors for us. This product is also technically reliable, has been proved in satellite projects, is ITAR free — and the price was attractive for this level of performance.”

The highly successful DMU30 silicon MEMS IMU is the predecessor to Silicon Sensing Systems’ latest generation IMU, the DMU41.

iQPS (Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space) is a space start-up founded in 2005 by two Emeritus Professors of Kyushu University and a rocket developer to establish the space industry in the Kyushu region in Japan.  The goal of iQPS small SAR satellite project is to deliver a near real-time data provision service.  In December 2019 iQPS launched its first small SAR satellite ‘Izanagi’ and planning to launch its second satellite ‘Izanami’ in the late 2020.  For further information. 

Silicon Sensing Systems Ltd is a gyroscope and inertial systems engineering development company, jointly owned by Collins Aerospace and Sumitomo Precision Products.  The company was formed in 1999 and is, today, a market leader in silicon, micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)-based navigation and stabilization technology. Approaching 40 million MEMS gyroscopes and accelerometers have been supplied to thousands of customers since the company’s formation. 

EMTECH SPACE, the prime contractor for the Hellenic Space Dawn (HSD) mission under the Greek CubeSat In-orbit Validation program managed by ESA, has selected the EnduroSat CubeSat platform as the key infrastructure for this groundbreaking satellite project.

This collaboration marks a major milestone for Greece’s expanding space capabilities, with EMTECH SPACE and EnduroSat aiming to leverage advanced space technologies to validate cutting-edge systems in orbit. This mission is set to propel Greece’s presence in the global space sector, highlighting the country’s commitment to innovation and satellite technology development.

The selected CubeSat platform from EnduroSat incorporates highly reliable components with proven flight heritage, including two 8U structures, an On-Board Computer with GNSS for precise navigation, an electrical power system supported by large batteries and advanced solar panels for satellite power generation, an S-band transceiver for communication, and an X-band transfer for data transmission.

This robust combination ensures the CubeSat’s operational effectiveness and reliability throughout the mission. The Hellenic Space Dawn Mission aims to validate Greek space technologies both in orbit and on the ground, enhancing the country’s space capabilities and fostering international collaboration with organizations such as ESA, which has backed seven Greek CubeSat missions – developed by small and medium-sized companies and universities – since 2023 through the Greek National Small Satellite Program.

The mission involves a two-satellite constellation and a comprehensive ground segment, consisting of optical and RF (S/X-band) ground stallions, a mission control system at EMTECH premises, and a Payload Data Ground Segment using secure cloud technologies. The mission promotes secure high-speed optical communication between satellite and ground, as well as secure intersatellite RF communication. Furthermore, it enables various Earth Observation applications, such as ship detection, coastal flood monitoring, and agriculture.

Key features include near real-time response, high image resolutions, and on-board image processing. EMTECH SPACE S.A. is proud to lead a robust collaboration with leading Greek SMEs and academic institutions for the mission.

Integrated Systems Development (ISD S.A.) oversees payload development, provides microelectronic integrated circuits and high-performance EDGE processing modules, and manages AIT/AIV adjectives.

HERON Engineering handles mechanical engineering aspects.

Geosystems Hellas develops Earth Observation applications and the Payload Data Ground Segment.

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki offers expertise in system simulations and CubeSat missions.

National Kapodistrian University of Athens supports onboard processing for image compression algorithms.

The Hellenic Naval Academy contributes to optical communication experiment simulations.

EMTECH SPACE S.A.’s strategy reaches far beyond the immediate scope of the HSD mission, with a clear vision to become a prominent operator in future CubeSat missions, catering to both Greek and international partners. To realize this goal, the company is actively cultivating robust partnerships with key players in the global CubeSat market. By leveraging cuing-edge technology and established expertise from collaborators such as EnduroSat, EMTECH SPACE positions itself to deliver reliable, high performance CubeSat missions that meet the growing demand for satellite services across sectors such as telecommunications, Earth Observation, and scientific research.

On the other side, this partnership opens doors to future projects and solidifies Endurosat’s reputation as a go-to provider for innovation and flight-proven satellite constellations. Together, the two companies are well-positioned to support the growing space ambitions of Greece and beyond.

Nikolaos-Antonios Livanos, Founder and Managing Director of EMTECH SPACE S.A., said, “We are excited to embark on this pivotal collaboration with EnduroSat, particularly for such a critical mission. Our decision to select the EnduroSat CubeSat platform was strategic, aimed at minimizing risk by using a proven, flight-ready solution from a trusted partner. This partnership not only reinforces our confidence in the project’s success but also strengthens our ongoing relationship with EnduroSat, as we work together to advance Greece’s role in space technology.”

“It is a pleasure for us to collaborate with EMTECH and assist them in their mission to validate Greek space technologies both in orbit and on the ground, strengthening Greece’s space capabilities” said Raycho Raychev , Founder and Chief Executive Officer at EnduroSat. “This is a very exciting project, and we are thrilled that they have entrusted us with the CubeSat Bus of the HSD mission.”