Steely Newsletter Issue #041 |
Read all about Iridium's new direct-to-device satellite service, the latest satellite industry trends to look forward to in 2024, the first text messages sent between T-Mobile phones via a Starlink satellite, and so much more! |
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| | Data Center Dynamics | Dan Swinhoe | 01-12-2024 Iridium is launching Project Stardust, a new service that will connect devices directly and enable Internet of Things (IoT) applications anywhere on Earth. Leveraging its existing network of 66 satellites, Iridium plans to offer standardized and custom D2D and IoT solutions, initially focusing on 5G messaging and emergency capabilities for mobile devices. Collaborations with industry players are underway to tailor the service to diverse needs, with testing expected in 2025 and full service launch in 2026." | Via Satellite | Mark Holmes | 01-11-2024 2023 was a year of both consolidation and disruption in the satellite industry. While legacy operators like Intelsat and SES grappled with mergers and funding challenges, new players like Amazon and SpaceX surged ahead with ambitious LEO constellations. This shift towards NGSO networks signals a potential future of co-existence between GEO and LEO, with each orbit catering to specific market segments. Despite unforeseen setbacks like ViaSat-3's payload failure, the industry remains optimistic about the future, with AI, new launch startups, and direct-to-device communication poised to be major talking points at SATELLITE 2024. | ARS Technica | Jon Brodkin | 01-11-2024 SpaceX and T-Mobile have successfully sent the first text messages between phones via a Starlink satellite. The new service, which uses "cellphone towers in space," will provide text messaging to T-Mobile customers in the US and other countries later this year, with voice and data service to follow in 2025. The service will work from almost anywhere on the planet, but will not be competitive with existing cellular networks in terms of bandwidth. T-Mobile plans to begin field testing of the service soon. |
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🛡️Satellite Cybersecurity News |
| Tech Radar | James Turgal | 01-10-2024 The rise of cyberattacks against satellites and space technology has exposed vulnerabilities and sparked the need for a proactive security strategy. Traditional security fundamentals, like taking an offensive approach and prioritizing basics, still apply, but need to be adapted to the three-dimensional nature of satellite systems. Companies must integrate security from hardware design to ground control, while employing defense-in-depth tactics like encryption and redundancy. Incident response plans and employee training are crucial for rapid and effective threat mitigation. Beyond individual actions, a strong public-private partnership is essential for information sharing and understanding the evolving threat landscape. By actively securing satellites and space IP, we can protect critical infrastructure and prevent widespread disruption. |
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| | everythingRF | 01-12-2024 The 2nd edition of everything RF's magazine is out, covering 10 major sectors of the wireless industry, including aerospace & defense, cables & connectors, and satellite & space. The magazine features interviews with experienced professionals, showcases state-of-the-art RF products, and offers insightful articles on topics like software-defined radios and GaN technology. The magazine is available to read at the bottom of this article. |
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| | The Defense Post | Joe Saballa | 01-12-2024 In a move to bolster its independent intelligence and counter regional tension, Japan successfully launched the Optical-8 satellite for monitoring North Korea's military activities. Though its effectiveness in harsh weather remains to be seen, the satellite will provide detailed images of military sites within months, marking a crucial step in strengthening Japan's intelligence gathering capabilities amidst rising security concerns in the Indo-Pacific. |
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🏛️US Government Satellite News |
| Space News | Sandra Erwin | 01-08-2024 The U.S. Space Development Agency awarded Rocket Lab a $515 million contract to build and operate 18 satellites for a secure military network. Rocket Lab joins Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman as the third supplier for this project, bringing its expertise in small-satellite launches and spacecraft components to the table. These satellites will provide vital communication links for military forces, enhancing their beyond line-of-sight connectivity. Rocket Lab's involvement marks a significant step towards building a robust and innovative space network for the U.S. Department of Defense. |
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