Europe Pursues Tech Independence Through Satellite IoT Innovator Sateliot

Key Takeaways

Sateliot is collaborating with the European Space Agency to develop a satellite IoT network that eliminates dependence on GPS.
The FreeGNSSNetwork project aims to enhance defense and security capabilities while supporting the next generation of 6G technology.
Current trials reveal positioning accuracy of around 10 meters and time synchronization to 50 nanoseconds, with in-orbit demonstrations planned soon.

Project Overview

Sateliot, a satellite IoT operator, has partnered with the European Space Agency (ESA) to advance Europe’s technological independence by creating a satellite IoT network that operates without GPS or other global navigation systems. Named FreeGNSSNetwork, this innovative project will enhance capabilities in defense and security sectors while laying the groundwork for future 6G technologies.

This initiative addresses significant vulnerabilities faced by Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, which serve more than half of the world’s surface lacking terrestrial network coverage. Thus far, LEO constellations have relied heavily on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) like American GPS, resulting in increased energy consumption, higher costs for IoT devices, and risks from signal interference in sensitive operations.

The FreeGNSSNetwork introduces a novel approach by employing sophisticated algorithms that enable IoT devices to ascertain their position using Sateliot’s satellite signals, bypassing conventional GNSS systems. This method is designed to maintain a reliable, accurate connection, particularly in “GNSS-denied” environments, which are critical during wartime conditions. The system is projected to achieve positioning accuracy within approximately 10 meters and provide precise time synchronization services down to 50 nanoseconds.

Currently, the technology is undergoing rigorous laboratory testing that simulates real satellite communication conditions. The next phase will involve in-orbit demonstrations utilizing prototype satellites and terminals that will transmit Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) data directly to ground-based IoT devices in Europe.

Jaume Sanpera, Co-Founder and CEO of Sateliot, noted the project’s potential to position Spain as a leader in satellite innovation, connecting the European industry to new IoT and 5G service markets. He emphasized that this dual-use technology serves both civil and defense applications, offering increased autonomy, resilience, and energy efficiency throughout the continent.

The satellite project agreement, marking Sateliot’s inaugural collaboration with the ESA, was formalized during a celebratory event in Madrid that honored ESA’s 50th anniversary. Noteworthy attendees included ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher and Spain’s Minister of Science, Innovation, and Universities, Diana Morant.

This venture aligns with Sateliot’s broader goals, as the company is already in the process of launching its first LEO satellite constellation built on the 5G standard. This structure allows unmodified commercial NB-IoT devices to connect from space, with recent progress including achieving the world’s first 5G satellite IoT connection.

By minimizing reliance on GPS, Sateliot is also positioning itself to significantly influence future communication standards, actively contributing to 6G development within the 3GPP framework.

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