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5G Satellites to Power Devices Directly from Space
9 Nov
Summary
- Antennas passed Critical Design Review for 5G satellite network.
- New tech enables satellites to offer broadband and direct-to-device 5G.
- 3D printing utilized for advanced antenna component production.
SWISSto12 has announced a significant milestone with the Critical Design Review (CDR) completion for S- and Ka-band phased array antennas intended for UNIVITY's 5G non-terrestrial network demonstration satellites. This review successfully concluded on November 9, 2026, clearing the path for the production of flight hardware.
The advanced antennas are designed to enable a single satellite architecture capable of delivering both high-speed broadband services and direct-to-device 5G connectivity. This dual functionality is crucial for UNIVITY's uniShape program, which aims to establish a shared, neutral space-based infrastructure. This infrastructure will allow telecom operators to offer enhanced services under their own brands, seamlessly extending their terrestrial networks.
SWISSto12 employs proprietary 3D printing technology in its manufacturing process, producing efficient radiating elements, miniaturized filters, and sophisticated beamforming circuits. The company's vertically integrated delivery model ensures the complete antenna system is developed and built at their facility in Switzerland, from initial specification to final product.
This achievement represents a critical step for UNIVITY's ambitious roadmap. The successful CDR was completed in less than a year, a testament to SWISSto12's advanced antenna technology and streamlined production capabilities. The next phase involves the extensive verification and acceptance testing of the hardware.
