Rivada Space Networks GmbH has appointed satellite industry veteran Donald Chew to lead commercial activities for the company in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region and he will be based in Singapore.

Donald Chew has more than 25 years of experience in the telecom and satellite industries in Asia Pacific, including key roles developing maritime and aero connectivity for Singtel and overseeing data and maritime projects for AsiaSat. For SES, Donald was responsible for growing revenue in new markets, including Indochina and Papua New Guinea. He was also responsible for developing special connectivity projects at Kacific, a company which delivers satellite broadband to isolated islands in the Pacific Ocean and Southeast Asia.

Rivada is launching a global, low-latency, point-to-point connectivity network of 600 LEO satellites: the “OuterNET.” This nexgen architecture combines inter-satellite laser links with advanced, onboard, data routers to create an optical mesh network in space.

This approach to “orbital networking,” in which data stays in space from origin to destination, creates an ultra-secure satellite network with pole-to-pole reach, offering end-to-end latencies similar to or better than terrestrial fiber. This is a unique capability for operations in the government services, enterprise, telecom, maritime and energy markets. The first satellite launch is set for 2025, with global service starting in 2026.

By allowing satellites to go beyond their traditional role of “gap-filler,” Rivada’s LEO system will become the technology of choice for data communications in Asia-Pacific and a more dynamic extension of the terrestrial telecoms networks. Rivada’s OuterNET will solve essential communications and connectivity challenges and meet the ever-growing need for an enterprise-grade, on-demand experience anywhere in the world for multinational enterprises and governments. For regional satellite operators, Rivada’s LEO network will complement their existing GEO infrastructure and help them expand into new markets.

A wholly owned subsidiary of Rivada Networks, Inc., Rivada Space Networks is rapidly moving ahead to deliver a game-changing LEO network of 600 Ka-band communications satellites. The company has placed a contract with Terran Orbital to build the satellites and SpaceX for the launch.

“I am excited to be joining Rivada Space Networks at this time when everything is on track to deliver a LEO network unlike any other. The OuterNET addresses real market needs of enterprise and government customers in Asia and around the globe, utilizing key attributes of low latency, high throughput and data sovereignty. I look forward to contributing my experience to bring this new opportunity in data communications to the Asia Pacific region.” — Donald Chew, VIce President, Asia-Pacific, Rivada Space Networks

Scientists and engineers at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) are working with colleagues at the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s (STFC) RAL Space to deliver a smallsat calibration facility.

The new facility is being designed, manufactured and tested at NPL’s Teddington site in south-west London and will be located at Harwell Campus. It will draw on expertise from NPL’s STAR-cc-OGSE facility, which provides innovative solutions for calibrating scientific instruments on satellites before their launch into space.

The facility will provide a state-of-the-art solution to instrument calibration and characterization, ensuring the required performance for both full satellite payloads and components is achieved.

The facility is intended for use by smallsat providers at short notice to perform essential pre-flight calibration and characterization tasks for individual satellites. This will ensure the end-to-end performance of a satellite instrument is understood before it is launched, which is a critical task for any space mission. By checking that all on-board instruments are correctly calibrated before launch, the new facility ensures that the satellite will collect reliable, accurate and trusted Earth Observation (EO) information that can be used by governments to make informed decisions on policies relating to climate change and emission reduction.

The new facility forms part of the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s £200 million ‘Earth Observation Investment Package’ that was launched last year to drive innovation in the UK EO sector. It will build on NPL’s and RAL Space’s existing programs that support the UK’s thriving EO sector, with a particular focus on how EO technology and data can help solve global challenges such as climate change. These programs also aim to create attractive opportunities to encourage individuals to develop their skills and build their careers here, and explore exciting new international collaborations.

The facility will support the government’s aim for the UK to become the global home for trusted climate and Earth information services.

The ‘new space’ sector is developing smallsat instruments that operate in a range of wavelengths for various EO applications. Calibration of these sensors is essential in ensuring the usefulness of data collected by these missions.

Large satellite missions developed under international space agency programmes may invest in bespoke calibration equipment solutions which would be a significant barrier to smaller private companies. These companies typically do not have the capability, budgets or expertise to individually develop their own pre-launch calibration testing facilities and programs. However, this facility, supported by experts from NPL and RAL Space, will provide state-of-the-art calibration to these companies at short notice and at a relatively low cost.

“Small satellite companies often struggle to find affordable and accessible calibration facilities, limiting the prospect of innovative new companies thriving in the UK’s fast growing space sector now worth £17.5bn. This new facility will provide a much-needed service to level the playing field for these companies, while driving economic growth in the UK. Such companies are playing an increasingly important role in monitoring our planet and collecting vital data on climate change, emissions and sustainable development. By ensuring that these satellites are properly calibrated, we can be confident that the data they collect is accurate and reliable – helping us to make better decisions about how to protect our planet, through means such as monitoring Earth’s temperature levels. This is the UK delivering on our commitment to support the UK Earth Observation sector.” — George Freeman MP, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, UK Minister of State

“This new facility forms part of NPL’s commitment to delivering the UK’s National Space Strategy. Space technology, as well as trusted earth observation data, is intrinsic to addressing challenges such as climate change on a global scale. By supporting companies in developing and measuring the performance of their instrumentation we’re ensuring they can be used with confidence.” — Dr. Emma Haynes, Partnerships Director, NPL

“We’re thrilled to be delivering this new facility to support the UK’s thriving Earth observation sector. Thanks to the expertise of RAL Space and NPL staff, the Small Satellite Calibration Facility will play a pivotal role in allowing companies to enhance the quality of their satellite data for a growing user community, at lower cost.” — Dr. Sarah Beardsley, Director, RAL Space

“The UK has a rich heritage in satellite manufacturing and Earth observation technology, with innovative start-ups and space companies developing powerful capabilities that would have been unthinkable only a decade ago. Thanks to government funding, this new small satellite calibration facility will open up access to NPL’s world-leading calibration expertise to even more companies, supporting the continued growth of the UK’s vibrant Earth Observation sector and increasing the value of the data it provides on our planet.” — Harshbir Sangha, Missions and Capabilities Delivery Director, UK Space Agency

Cloudeo has partnered with Spire Global to bring weather data to more than 34,000 GIS and Earth Observation (EO) experts from around the world.

Spire Global builds, owns and operates a fully deployed satellite constellation that observes the Earth in real time using radio frequency (RF) technology. Spire’s radio occultation (RO) technology processes more than 20,000 atmospheric readings daily and has been trusted by leading weather service providers such as ECMWF, NOAA, and NCAR.

Spire Global will be the exclusive weather data provider on Cloudeo’s platform, bringing already historical, current and 15 day weather forecast data sets. Satellite-powered weather data enables GIS experts to perform spatial analysis, emergency management, environmental studies, urban planning, natural resource management, among other decision-support utilities.

Spire’s listing on Cloudeo’s marketplace will encompass a wide range of weather datasets, including maritime, soil moisture, historical weather and more. This partnership will pave the way for researchers and commercial entities to build better decision-support products, particularly when integrated with other Earth Observation data.

Numerous opportunities for growth and continued innovation in the industry will be resultant of this agreement by allowing…

• Expanded Data Access: The partnership will lead to expanded access to satellite powered weather data.
• Enhanced Data Analytics: Collaborations between Spire Global and cloudeo’s partners specializing in data analytics and Earth Observation can result in more advanced and refined analytical tools.
• Improved Data Processing and Delivery: Partnerships such as this can streamline data processing and delivery workflows. This allows for quicker access to up-to-date information, benefiting various industries and applications.

“Through our partnership with Cloudeo, we are excited to expand our market reach and unlock new opportunities. By combining our weather and satellite expertise, resources, and networks, we can offer integrated solutions that address specific industry needs, reaching new markets and customers. This partnership is an enabler for breakthroughs in the industry, opening up new applications and expanding our customer base.” — Mike Eilts, General Manager of Weather and Earth Intelligence, Spire Global

“By teaming up with Spire, we are expanding access to high-quality weather data and driving innovation in the industry. This partnership represents a significant milestone for Cloudeo and addresses the growing demand for accurate and reliable data, by empowering commercial entities and researchers to build better decision-support products. We are confident that this collaboration will drive growth and innovation in our network of partners and customers while benefiting various sectors and applications.” — Dr. Manfred Krischke, CEO, Cloudeo

Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: IRDM) has introduced their Iridium Certus® aviation commercial service, providing a secure cockpit domain with reliable voice and data capabilities.

Using L-band satellite frequencies that are superior for cockpit communications, Iridium Certus for aviation is an ideal complement to commercial transport passenger cabin connectivity Ka-/Ku-band services and can be a primary service for small-to-mid-size business jet cabins. It would also be preferred to HF/VHF for electronic flight bag (EFB), flight critical data, and passenger communications during oceanic flights.

Iridium’s partners are introducing a range of multi-tier Iridium Certus solutions that complement other in-flight connectivity (IFC) systems installed on aircraft. Multiple Iridium Value Added Manufacturers (VAMs) and Value-Added Resellers (VARs) are providing a spectrum of Iridium Certus 100 and Iridium Certus 700 solutions. Safety certifications are currently in progress, with flight trials expected to begin by the end of 2023 and approvals expected in 2024, making it a valuable short-term and long-term investment for aircraft operators.

With its LEO satellite network, Iridium offers weather-resilient L-band connectivity and unparalleled global coverage versus GEO systems. The flexibility of Iridium Certus service to scale device SWaP requirements both up and down allows users to cater to various mission needs, offering different price points and versatility for diverse aircraft types and operational requirements. Iridium Certus also makes it affordable for aircraft operators to obtain real-time data from the cockpit, enabling better decision-making and improved operational efficiency.

The success of Iridium Certus technology in maritime and land applications has paved the way for its entry into the aviation realm. With thousands of subscribers currently using the Iridium Certus service, its deployment has been extensive and highly regarded. The aviation industry now benefits from the robust suite of solutions provided by Iridium Certus, supporting Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV)/Urban Air Mobility (UAM), business jet cabin connectivity, and paving the way for future flight deck applications. Iridium and its ecosystem of partners are continually developing new offerings, with additional announcements and terminal launches planned for later this year.

“The aviation industry is forecasting a period of unprecedented growth, where reliable connectivity has become crucial for both passenger and cockpit communications. Iridium Certus perfectly fits these applications due to the combination of its Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) as well as the outstanding reliability of our global network. With our upgraded constellation, we have significantly improved and expanded our offerings, delivering air traffic control services, weather, and critical information to cockpits worldwide more affordably than ever before.” — Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium

“Iridium’s first generation voice and data solutions are installed on over 60,000 aircraft today and have been critical for flight safety and relied upon by pilots and airlines for years. As the preferred solution for a wide range of aviation applications, from drones to airliners, Iridium Certus is ready to support the industry’s evolving connectivity needs.” — John Peterson, Executive Director of Aviation, Iridium

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) has scheduled the company’s next Electron launch during a window that opens July 28, 2023, NZST/UTC.

The ‘We Love the Nightlife’ mission is scheduled to launch from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 on New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula for Capella Space (Capella), a provider of commercial, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery.

‘We Love the Nightlife’ will be Rocket Lab’s third launch for Capella following the successful “Stronger Together” mission launched in March 2023 from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 2 in Virginia, USA, and the “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Optical” mission in August 2020 from Launch Complex 1, which deployed the first satellite in Capella’s SAR constellation.

‘We Love the Nightlife’ will be the first of four, new, dedicated launches on Electron for Capella, announced in February of 2023, to deploy Capella’s next-generation SAR Earth-imaging satellites called Acadia.

Capella’s satellites deliver high quality, high resolution SAR imagery capable of penetrating all weather conditions and capturing clear imagery 24-7, day and night, anywhere on Earth, delivered through Capella’s fully-automated ordering and delivery platform.

The next-generation Acadia satellites include a number of enhancements to Capella’s existing constellation, including increased bandwidth and power and faster downlink speeds. When combined with Capella’s existing long-dwell imaging capability and extended duty-cycle – which results in more images collected per orbit than other SAR systems – Acadia will continue to set the benchmark within the SAR industry.

All four upcoming Electron missions will launch from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1, each deploying a single Acadia satellite to a 640 km mid-inclination orbit, expanding the existing Capella Space SAR constellation and providing more rapid revisit across diverse regions around the Earth.

Each Capella Space satellite will also be supported by a Rocket Lab-manufactured Advanced Lightband: separation systems for each satellite to attach to and deploy from Electron once launched to orbit.

“Electron was the trusted launch vehicle for Capella’s first publicly available satellite when we launched their mission in 2020, so it’s an honor once again to be entrusted with launching the first of their next generation Acadia satellites. Reaching 40 Electron launches is a wonderful milestone for our team members who have built the most reliable small launch vehicle in history and we’re delighted to share such a significant launch with our long-standing mission partner Capella.” — Peter Beck, CEO, Capella Space

“We are proud to partner with Rocket Lab to introduce Capella’s third-generation Acadia satellite technology to the world,” said . “Acadia is a reflection of our commitment to technology innovation and will preserve our track record of delivering high-quality and low latency SAR imagery to customers anywhere in the world.” — Payam Banazadeh, Founder and CEO, Capella Space

OneWeb Technologies Inc. has successfully concluded several demos with MITRE and the Department of the Air Force’s Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communication and Battle Management (PEO C3BM) during the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command “Exercise Northern Edge,” which took place recently in Alaska at the Joint Pacific-Alaska Range Complex (JPARC).

OneWeb Technologies deployed several terminals across the JPARC, including locations in the Gulf of Alaska, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, and at Eielson Air Force Base in Fairbanks, Alaska. Leveraging parent company OneWeb’s terminals, the company demonstrated high-capacity, low-latency, SATCOM connectivity for afloat and ashore locations and served as a critical linkage for the USAF’s Advanced Battle Management System.

OneWeb Technologies provided an alternate commercial data transport pathway increasing battle network resilience that is key to the service’s Agile Combat Employment concept.

OneWeb Technologies personnel also worked with MITRE to perform initial usability and proof-of-concept testing in early spring in Bedford, Massachusetts, ahead of the Alaska-area exercise. The results of the OneWeb SATCOM testing consistently exceeded available MILSATCOM capabilities in terms of throughput, latency, and availability.

OneWeb Technologies’ expansion of its ground architecture is expected to be complete in early 2024, with access to OneWeb’s full constellation of more than 600 satellites on-orbit, offering global service by the end of 2023. Today, OneWeb Technologies is providing mission-essential services to civil, commercial, and defense customers throughout the northern hemisphere, and will be expanding services in the coming months. Other advanced capabilities are in test and evaluation, and OneWeb Technologies is working with various defense agencies to support specialized and boutique requirements in accordance with its “customer-led, simplicity-first” business model.

“I am proud of the team for what they have accomplished and with the results of these demonstrations. The performance we are seeing from the OneWeb constellation, the OneWeb Technologies secure ground network, and user equipment is the result of hard work, and great partnership with our Department of Defense and Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) customers. SATCOM is the lifeblood of today’s connected, precision military. Without capabilities like OneWeb and OneWeb Technologies, the world is a less secure, less sure place,” said Steen. “I’m honored to be part of enabling our country’s National Security and lifesaving capabilities and am proud to be working with our defense partners around the world.” — Kevin Steen, CEO, OneWeb Technologies

Sidus Space, Inc. (NASDAQ:SIDU) has been awarded a new subcontract to produce hardware in support of Parsons Corporation’s (NYSE: PSN) Launch Manifest Systems Integration (LMSI) contract — under the terms of the agreement, Sidus Space will fabricate a master harness assembly and test cables for Parsons.

Sidus offers more than a decade of expertise in manufacturing mission critical hardware for customers including international and U.S. governments, NASA, and major space and defense prime contractors such as Parsons Corporation. With a proven history of success, space qualification know-how, and a rich legacy of hardware manufacturing, Sidus plays a pivotal role in missions that extend beyond LEO, encompassing destinations such as the moon, Mars and beyond.

Parsons is the U.S. Space Force’s prime contractor leading LMSI, a multi-year contract to integrate and operate rideshare payloads in the national security and other U.S. Government (USG) missions. Parsons is delivering multi-manifest smallsat payload integration solutions to space for USG-owned and sponsored smallsat systems and has integrated payloads for several missions, including the U.S. Space Force’s Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF)-5 communications satellite (artistic rendition below) and the joint NASA/U.S. Geological Survey’s Landsat 9 EO satellite.

“Parsons is an industry leader, and we are pleased to further our work on this important U.S. Space Force mission in collaboration with such a notable partner. This latest contract award again underscores our strong position in the space community where we are playing an increasingly vital role as a manufacturing partner with one of the U.S. Space Force’s leading prime contractors.” — Carol Craig, Founder and CEO, Sidus Space