Satellites Get a Relay Boost for Constant Contact

Apolink has announced a strategic partnership with RBC Signals to resell its proposed in-orbit relay services. This collaboration aims to bridge the connectivity gaps experienced by satellites that are out of view of terrestrial command-and-control links.

Apolink, based in Palo Alto, California, is preparing to deploy a cubesat in the second quarter of 2026 aboard SpaceX's Transporter-17 rideshare mission. This demonstration will test receiving signals from other low Earth orbit spacecraft and forwarding them to the ground.

The startup plans to leverage RBC Signals' extensive network of nearly 100 antennas across more than 60 sites for its relay architecture's end-mile teleport. Beyond this initial demonstration, Apolink intends to develop a larger fleet of interconnected spacecraft for continuous telemetry, tracking, and command coverage.

This enhanced relay capability targets single-satellite operators and emerging constellations that require near-real-time connectivity for faster tasking and responsive mission operations. Apolink's founder, Onkar Batra, noted that most low Earth orbit spacecraft are connected to the ground for less than 8% of each orbit, with blackouts ranging from 45-90% even with extensive ground networks.

Apolink also anticipates demand from sovereign programs seeking secure communications backhaul without the need for substantial ground infrastructure. The company has reported over $150 million in customer commitments since its founding in 2024.