Space Compass forges optical satellite relay pact

Space Compass added a route to further develop optical data relay technology for satellites through an agreement with specialist Apolink and communications service provider JSAT International. The companies signed a memorandum of understanding covering various aspects of providing a link between geosynchronous and low Earth orbit satellites. Space Compass explained the agreement covers joint exploration of the “technical and business potential” of such connectivity and could pave the way for future collaboration between the three. It explained there are “complementary capabilities” between the companies and there would be an initial focus on interconnecting “Apolink’s LEO data relay network” with its GEO equivalent. The goal is to develop a concept for relaying information between the two satellite types, though with a keen eye on whether there is money to be made and in which markets. JSAT International is a division of Sky Perfect JSAT, the company which helped establish joint venture Space Compass along with Japanese giant NTT. Apolink is a US-based space communications company. Space Compass explained it provides high-speed, low-latency LEO connectivity using a “hybrid RF and optical intersatellite link” architecture. Space Compass progressed its plan last month when it picked Swissto12 to construct the HummingSat spacecraft and earlier this year booked a deal with Airspan Networks covering 5G HAPS. The post Space Compass forges optical satellite relay pact appeared first on Mobile World Live .