Open Cosmos to build Sateliot nanosatellites

  • September 3, 2020
  • Steve Rogerson

Open Cosmos is to build and operate satellite communications operator Sateliot’s nanosatellite constellation, enabling continuous global connectivity for IoT under 5G architecture.

UK-based Open Cosmos is already underway in the manufacturing, mission management and launch of the first satellites, out of the one hundred that will comprise the full constellation that Sateliot has scheduled for construction before the end of 2022.

These microwave oven sized satellites operate in low Earth orbit, flying at an approximate altitude of 500km to guarantee IoT connectivity at a global scale and in almost real time.

“We are excited to have satellite production underway for these satellites and to be progressing with all other aspects of the mission, including system integration, launch, licensing and logistics, as well as orbit operations,” said Rafel Jordá, CEO of Open Cosmos. “We are delighted to partner with Sateliot to enable the reality of IoT anywhere.”

The forecast for the next two years is that there will be more than 50 billion IoT devices globally and with this constellation Sateliot is positioned to partner with conventional telecommunication providers to ensure ubiquitous coverage.

Spanish firm Sateliot will also offer monitoring and tracking systems, data analysis and processes in areas such as maritime, railways, aeronautical, agriculture and farming, oil and gas exploration, and electric or critical infrastructure.

Jaume Sanpera, CEO of Sateliot, said that “a bond with a partner, such as Open Cosmos, allows us to move forward with our project, meeting head on the requirements and challenges the new space industry faces, while keeping control over the design of the antennas and the radio that will allow the operational and commercial management of our telecommunications service”.

Sateliot says it is the first satellite telecommunications operator that will provide real-time global connectivity to all industries and sectors carrying IoT, such as having a car or the house connected, following 5G protocol. The nanosatellite constellation flying in lower orbit will act as a mobile tower.

Open Cosmos designs, manufactures and operates satellites for those who want to monitor changes on Earth at a global scale, who want to provide telecommunications services based on satellite constellations and who want to test innovative space technologies in orbit.