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StatusOngoing
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Status date2025-08-19
The project's core objective is the development of a next-generation multi-orbit Satcom antenna, optimized for seamless operation across all common satellite constellations: GEO (geostationary), MEO (medium Earth orbit), and LEO (low Earth orbit). The terminal is designed to deliver maximum transmission performance and reliability, a modular design and compact form factor suitable for both stationary and mobile applications.
Currently undergoing a multi-stage development process, the project unites scientific excellence, advanced engineering, and strong collaboration between research and industry. For Austria, this initiative marks a technological milestone – both in terms of global visibility and the strategic strengthening of national expertise in the space sector.
Designing a satellite communications terminal with a small form factor and low weight requires precise engineering to balance compactness with high performance. Integrating multi-orbit capabilities adds complexity, as the system must seamlessly operate across GEO, MEO, and LEO networks, each with distinct signal characteristics and link budget profiles. Achieving this demands advanced antenna technology, efficient power management, and robust thermal design to ensure reliable connectivity under varying conditions, without compromising portability or structural integrity.
The development of a compact, lightweight, multi-orbit satellite communications terminal offers significant advantages for the rapidly growing satellite communications market. Its small form factor and low weight enable easy deployment in both stationary and mobile applications, while reducing installation costs and expanding usage in sectors such as transportation, emergency response, and remote connectivity. Multi-orbit capability ensures seamless operation across GEO, MEO, and LEO satellite networks, providing continuous, high-performance connectivity regardless of location or mission requirements.
As a fully European solution, this technology reduces reliance on non-European suppliers, strengthening strategic autonomy and securing control over critical infrastructure. Its adaptability to various satellite constellations positions it perfectly for the rising market demand driven by global digitalisation, expanding broadband access, and the growth of space-based services.
By uniting advanced engineering, modular design, and efficient power and thermal management, the terminal meets the industry’s need for flexible, reliable, and future-ready connectivity. This innovation not only enhances Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage but also supports sustainable technological leadership in the space sector, creating new opportunities for research, industry, and end users alike.
The six-month definition phase focuses on shaping the project’s foundation. In the first two months, all technical and market requirements are gathered and validated. The following four months concentrate on developing the system architecture, ensuring alignment with performance goals, integration needs, and regulatory standards. This phase delivers a clear blueprint for subsequent development stages.
The project has completed its requirements phase.
