Steely Newsletter Issue #038

Hughes opens data spigot as new broadband satellite enters service

Light Reading | Jeff Baumgartner | 12-19-2023

Hughes Network Systems is launching new high-speed internet plans powered by their new Jupiter 3 satellite. These plans offer up to 100 Mbps download speeds and come with unlimited data, making them more competitive in the satellite broadband market. The increased capacity from Jupiter 3 will also allow Hughes to target new markets, such as enterprise customers and underserved rural areas. Hughes is optimistic that the upcoming BEAD program will provide opportunities for them to expand their reach even further.

Amazon Demonstrates 100 Gbps Laser Links on Prototype Kuiper Satellites

Via Satellite | Rachel Jewett | 12-14-2023

Amazon's Project Kuiper takes a major leap forward with the successful testing of laser links between its prototype satellites. These optical connections, clocking in at 100 gigabits per second, will weave the satellites into a high-speed mesh network, boosting data transfer and offering redundancy for secure global communication. The company plans to equip every Kuiper satellite with this technology, paving the way for full-scale internet service deployment later in 2024.

Lynk Global to Go Public With A-Rod’s Slam SPAC

Via Satellite | Rachel Jewett | 12-18-2023

Satellite startup Lynk Global, boasting proven satellite-to-phone tech, is going public via a merger with Alex Rodriguez's SPAC, Slam Corp. This $800 million deal signals a SPAC comeback in the space industry, with A-Rod aiming to invest in Lynk's "cell towers in space" tech that provides mobile connectivity even beyond cellular networks. Lynk hopes public status will fuel expansion and bring broadband access to billions globally. The combined company is expected to finalize their business partnership in the coming weeks.

Space Development Agency to evaluate SpiderOak cybersecurity software

Space News | Sandra Erwin | 10-17-2023

In a bid to shield its critical satellite control systems, the U.S. Space Development Agency has partnered with cybersecurity firm SpiderOak. SpiderOak's innovative "zero-trust" software will be evaluated for its ability to secure ground infrastructure that manages military satellites in orbit. This initiative aligns with the Space Force's efforts to bolster its space communication networks against potential cyber threats. The success of this collaboration could pave the way for long-term protection of America's space assets.

ReliaSat Introduces K/Ka-Band Phased Array Flat Panel Antennas

everythingRF | 12-18-2023

K-band and Ka-band Flat Panel Phased Array Antennas are compact and adaptable solutions for satellite communication, especially in CubeSats. The K-band antenna operates at 19 GHz and offers pre-configured circular polarization, making it ideal for high-speed data transmission and reception. The Ka-band antenna operates at 29.25 GHz and features a wider frequency range and scalable design for Earth observation, remote sensing, and long-distance communication. Both antennas are revolutionizing satellite communication in small satellites.

A top-secret Chinese spy satellite just launched on a supersized rocket

Ars Technica | Stephen Clark | 12-15-2023

China enhanced its Long March 5 rocket to accommodate its largest spy satellite, the Yaogan-41. The extended payload fairing suggests a substantial satellite, likely for geosynchronous orbit surveillance. Despite China's claim of civilian use, Yaogan satellites are often military. The optical-imaging capabilities could track US Navy activities. As the US sees China as a major rival, the space competition intensifies. China's Space Force, rapidly launching spy satellites, demonstrates a strategic focus. The Long March 5's cost-effectiveness contributes to China's space dominance, with plans for reusable technology.

New report urges US to look beyond cheap low-earth satellites for missile warning

Defense One | Patrick Tucker | 12-19-2023

A new report urges the US to move beyond low-orbit satellites for missile defense against Chinese and Russian hypersonics. The Pentagon's current approach struggles to track these elusive weapons, especially over vast oceans like the South China Sea. Instead, the report suggests a multi-layered system with higher-orbit satellites, drones, and aircraft for comprehensive coverage. While the Space Development Agency continues launching satellites, they explore alternative solutions like data fusion and leveraging existing satellites to address coverage gaps. With growing congressional interest in hypersonic threats, the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act already includes funding to accelerate countermeasures.

SDA Goal to Field 8 ‘FOO Fighter’ Satellite Constellation

Via Satellite | Frank Wolfe | 12-14-2023

The U.S. Space Force's Space Development Agency (SDA) is seeking proposals for a four to eight satellite constellation, named F2, to detect and track advanced missiles of potential adversaries. The F2 system aims to provide global detection, warning, and precision tracking of hypersonic missile threats, incorporating fire control-quality sensors into a scalable prototype constellation. SDA plans to deploy eight F2 space vehicles with electro-optical/infrared sensors by fiscal 2026.

• HawkEye 360 to Acquire Aurora Insight Assets from Maxar Intelligence
• Starlink preparing satellite-based 4G Direct to Cell service
• Millions of Satellites Could Have a Profound Effect on the Earth’s Ionosphere