KSATlite is KSAT´s easy-to-use ground network solution offering optimized support for Smallsats and big constellations. The offered solution has gained popularity in the Smallsat marketplace and is currently experiencing high demand. At the beginning of the year the KSATlite network accounted for 10 000 contacts out of the 50 000 monthly contacts on the KSAT global network. By the end of September that number was more than 20 000.
“The growth we see now confirms that the way we operate matches perfectly the specific needs of customers in this market segment, both on solutions and price point says Kristian Jenssen, Director of KSATlite. “It makes me extremely proud to see that the automated systems we have developed are scaling up seamlessly, and that we are able to handle both LEOP and big constellation support with just a small team.”
The strong growth is caused by several factors but clearly indicates a vibrant and growing commercial space industry despite Covid -19. The total volume is growing due to the number of customers, the number of satellites launched, as well as the number of contacts required by both new and existing customers.
The sky is not the limit
KSATlite is set up with a software-optimised scheduling system. Leveraging up-to-date Application Programming Interfaces (API´s) enables efficient support for even the big LEO broadband and IoT constellations and the team is experienced in handling Launch vehicle, LEOP, and in-orbit support ensuring mission success throughout spacecraft lifecycle.
Since August the lite-team has provided LEOP support for close to thirty satellites on 6 launchers, 3 of them within the same week, thus demonstrating an unmatched ability to tackle high volumes across the network as well as simultaneous support capacity.
“We have good reason to believe that this growth will continue. The sky is not the limit as they say, continues Kristian. “Easy integration of new missions means new satellites can easily be added. It’s a scalable system that allows satellite operators to scale their ground communications support as the constellation grows- and technically our systems are ready for another doubling.”
