hiSky announced the successful launch of the “Ella1” nanosatellite into orbit, utilizing the 4U Lemur platform designed, built, and operated by Spire Global, and equipped with a Ka and Ku payload to showcase hiSky’s Smartellite™ multi-orbit network-as-a-service.
The ‘Ella1’ journey will start with in-orbit commissioning phase and advance bus checkout to verify that all the nanosatellite components are functional, this first stage of tests will take approximately 3 weeks.
During the second stage hiSky will be carrying out payload on-orbit performance verification and validation, checking the Ka and Ku payloads with hiSky’s ground stations. This stage is scheduled for the 3 weeks following the initial testing period.
The third stage of Ella1’s journey will be dedicated to showcasing hiSky’s SmartelliteTM ground network operating multi-orbit connectivity.
This remarkable achievement not only highlights our commitment to advancing space exploration but also signifies a groundbreaking leap in satellite technology, serving as a testament to hiSky’s mission and dedication.
The “Ella1” nanosatellite, a pivotal project within the ongoing collaboration between hiSky, the United Kingdom Space Agency, and the European Space Agency through the ARTES Core Competitiveness Program, embarks on a mission with two primary goals: showcasing hiSky’s Smartellite™ network with Low Earth Orbit constellations, underscoring our network’s exceptional adaptability and efficiency, and highlighting Multi-Orbit Switching Technology. The mission will showcase our network’s unique capability to seamlessly switch between Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellites and LEO satellites. This is made possible through our quick-synchronizing modem and electronically steerable antennas, setting a new standard in satellite technology.
hiSky’s Multi-Orbit, Fast-Switching capability offers a unique blend of connectivity services for our customers, providing Low Data Rate services for applications such as Internet of Things and Mobile Satellite Services using GEO satellites, as well as High Data Rate capabilities for large data transfers via LEO satellites. Our proprietary modem technology operates across a wide range of data rates, from 5kbps to tens of megabytes per second, utilizing both Ka and Ku-band frequencies.
hiSky’s aim is to offer a unified solution for various industry needs. Remote industries increasingly demand real-time data for efficient operations, safety, and remote management of their assets. The automotive industry, for instance, now requires satellite connectivity for a wide array of applications. Until now, these needs were met by multiple providers, each specializing in either narrowband or broadband services. hiSky now offers a comprehensive solution, addressing all these requirements within a single ecosystem.
Additionally, the hiSky network is designed to be agnostic to the satellite component, allowing hiSky’s global partners to work seamlessly with current and future Ka or Ku-band LEO constellations, ensuring rapid market deployment and adaptability.
“With the successful showcase of our multi-orbit capabilities, hiSky will soon introduce our universal connectivity solution,” said Matilda Tafa, hiSky’s ESA Programme Lead. “This groundbreaking network offering will provide dual-mode, multi-orbit connectivity, seamlessly integrating GEO, LEO, and Cellular connectivity into a single, affordable, scalable, and user-friendly solution. hiSky extends its deep appreciation to our dedicated team, our partners at Spire Global, the UK Space agency, ESA, and all stakeholders who have contributed to this groundbreaking mission. Together, we look forward to shaping the future of satellite technology and connectivity. “
“We’re thrilled to be part of hiSky’s remarkable achievement with Ella1,” said Frank Frulio, general manager of Space Services, Spire. “With Spire Space Services, our aim is to simplify space and make it accessible for all. We’re honored hiSky has chosen our secure, scalable, and proven platform to both enable and showcase their cutting-edge technology.”
