What is the main challenge for companies building an internet for space?

Companies must demonstrate concrete use cases for their space internet technologies beyond just technical promise.

Why is there a gap in leveraging optical communications for space internet?

Many satellite operators and payload developers lack the necessary in-house skillset to effectively utilize new optical communication technologies.

How can Kepler Communications' satellites help with wildfire detection?

Kepler's laser-linked satellites with on-orbit computing can livestream thermal infrared data from space with zero latency, enabling real-time detection and characterization of wildfires for first responders.

Home / Technology / Space Internet: Lasers Beam Data, But Use Cases Lag

Space Internet: Lasers Beam Data, But Use Cases Lag

11 Feb

•

Summary

Companies building space internet must show practical uses beyond technical promise.
Optical communication's benefits are recognized, but few possess the necessary skills.
Laser-linked satellites can livestream wildfire data with zero latency.

Space Internet: Lasers Beam Data, But Use Cases Lag

Industry leaders are calling for companies developing an "internet for space" to prove tangible benefits and move past theoretical concepts. Buzzwords like "space data layer" are prevalent, but end-users prioritize practical outcomes over specific technologies like laser or radio communication.

Kepler Communications, a Canadian company, recently deployed its initial tranche of 10 satellites. These are equipped with laser terminals and on-orbit computing, designed to process data directly in space, reducing reliance on constant downlinking.

This infrastructure aims to showcase real-world applications. For instance, partnered with OroraTech, Kepler's network could enable the "livestreaming" of thermal infrared data for wildfire detection. Such a capability offers unprecedented real-time response tools for first responders.

The distributed computing across Kepler's network allows for orbital analytics. This shift moves space systems towards continuous, networked operations, enhancing efficiency by processing data in space rather than transmitting massive raw datasets.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.

Space Internet: Lasers Beam Data, But Use Cases Lag

11 Feb

•

Summary

Companies building space internet must show practical uses beyond technical promise.
Optical communication's benefits are recognized, but few possess the necessary skills.
Laser-linked satellites can livestream wildfire data with zero latency.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.