IEDs: Insurgents misusing smart mobile satellite phones

VVVolVolVolVol o6 o6 66l l. .No. NoNo. No78 N N 55 oo5.. 3 April 2018 2020

AFRICA

Nigeria

Space Vacation Industry faces revenue loss as COVID-19 forces shutdown

C O N T E N T S Vol. 8 No. 3

COVID-19 pandemic and the space industry Editor in-chief Aliyu Bello Eutelsat's Konnect Africa to connect schools in the DRC with high speed internet Executive Manager Tonia Gerrald IEDs: Insurgents misusing smart mobile satellite phones SA to the editor in-Chief Ngozi Okey Head, Application Services M. Yakubu Future missions under COVID 19 threats Editorial/ICT Services John Daniel ST Engineering iDirect named “company to watch” at the Usman Bello Mobility Innovation Awards 2020 Alozie Nwankwo Supporting the growth of broadcasting in Nigeria Juliet Nnamdi Disruption times as satellite industry faces COVID-19 threats Client Relations Sunday Tache Rural areas of Britain promised better internet Lookman Bello Knowledge for space, space for knowledge Safiya Thani Marketing Offy Pat UAE migrates to e-learning as 22,000 teachers qualified Tunde Nathaniel to tutor online Wasiu Olatunde Egypt advances space program with 10-year plan Media Relations Favour Madu Intelsat selects SpaceX to launch Intelsat 40e satellite Khadijat Yakubu COVID-19: Industry faces revenue Zacheous Felicia loss as space vacation shutdown Finance Folarin Tunde Satellite distress alerting Space Watch Magazine is a publication of Communication Science, Inc. All correspondence should be addressed to editor, space Watch Magazine. Abuja office: Plot 2009, Awka Street, UTC Building, GF 11, Area 10, Garki, Abuja, Nigeria Tel: 234 80336471114, 07084706167, email: [email protected]

LEGAL CONSULTANTS Idowu Oriola & Co. Garki, Abuja

DISTRIBUTION CONTACTS Ade Adejo

ABIJAN INTERNATIONAL Suleija, Abuja

AYO DISTRIBUTION AGENCY Emir Road, Ilorin Olumayowa Ojo

NEWSROUND INTERNATIONAL Area 10, Garki, Abuja Magazine Circulation Nigeria Limited 90, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja Magazine Subscription Nigeria Limited Ikeja, Lagos.

DELALI OTCHI Ridge Church, Tudu Branch, Accra, Ghana.

AL AHRAM NEWPAPERS LIMITED Al Galaa Street -11511 Cairo-Egypt Ayo Olu

MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION AGENCY Jos, Plateau State.

1

Editorial

COVID-19 pandemic and the space industry

COVID-19, the disease caused by the adopting social distancing to keep the have been suspended. This exceptional novel coronavirus, has infected more than sales coming while ensuring public measure was designed to protect the 800,000 people worldwide to date, with safety. Many of them have now rolled health of employees and the local more than 7,000 confirmed deaths and o u t c o n t a c t l e s s d e l i v e r y population, while also maintaining the the numbers are rising considerably. The schemes.“Offering contactless delivery security needed to prepare for scheduled economic impacts of COVID-19 are launches. These launch preparations will already significant, affecting global stock The effect on the space community is resume as soon as allowed by health market, airlines and the space industry in much deeper and broader than it is conditions, according to CNES, the particular, and many organizations are been recently estimated, from French Space Agency. directing their employees to work from canceled or postponed conferences to home. delays in the collection of science data. Recently, Telesat announced it has After the devastating impact of COVID-19 For instance, the Space Foundation enacted its work from home policy in its became evident in the Hubei province, announced March 13 that it's offices globally effective March 16, 2020 th C h i n a i m p o s e d u n p r e c e d e n t e d postponing the 36 Space Symposium, in an effort to keep office workers safe and measures, building hospitals in ten days, which was supposed to be held in facilitate social distancing amidst the instituting a “lockdown” for almost 60 Colorado Springs, Colorado, from increase of COVID-19. Telesat provides million people and significant restrictions March 30 through April 2. The Space critical satellite communications for hundreds of millions of others, and Symposium is one of the space infrastructure to its customers and as using broad-based surveillance to ensure community's signature annual events, such, has comprehensive business compliance in an attempt to combat the bringing together thousands of people continuity plans to ensure continued spread. These measures have been from around the globe, including some operations of its satellites, network and successful in rapidly reducing very heavy hitters. This year's list of teleport infrastructure.“The continued transmission of the virus, even as the scheduled speakers included safety and well-being of our employees is economy has been restarting. Bridenstine, U.S. Secretary of our top priority,” stated Dan Goldberg, Commerce Wilbur Ross and Space CEO of Telesat. “We have invested in the So far, large-scale quarantines, travel Force Commander Gen. John right tools and business continuity restrictions, and social-distancing Raymond. planning and, as a result, can maintain the measures drive a sharp fall in consumer critical infrastructure and services that our and business spending until the end of The American Astronomical Society customers rely while our work from home Q2, producing a recession. Although the (AAS) announced on March 13 that policy is in effect. outbreak comes under control in most proceeding with its normal summer According to NSR, the COVID-19 impact parts of the world by late in Q2, the self- meeting this year,, which is scheduled will be felt for another 2-3 quarters based reinforcing dynamics of a recession kick to take place in Wisconsin from May 31 on demand erosion in key network in and prolong the slump until the end of to June 4, "is simply not possible." The segments of commercial aero, cruise and Q3. Consumers stay home, businesses AAS hopes to hold the conference Oil and Gas industry. lose revenue and lay off workers, and virtually, but it's unclear at the moment Despite the onslaught, the International unemployment levels rise sharply. if that will happen. Telecommunications Union, ITU said Business investment contracts, and The list goes on. In South Africa, the telecommunication networks is still vital to corporate bankruptcies soar, putting SANSA public tours, learner visits and our health and safety, and to keep our significant pressure on the banking and the space talk public lecture series has economy and society working, as COVID- financial system. been cancelled with immediate effect 19 crisis rages across the world. until further notice. These measures ITU launched a new platform to assist Industry has witnessed an alarming 35%- was taken out of concern for the health national policy-makers, regulators and 50% decline in stock prices of SES, and safety of the general public, industry stakeholders to ensure that Intelsat, Eutelsat and ViaSat in just over a learners, tourists and the staff and networks are kept resilient and month, according to NSR. Demand students at SANSA, according to the telecommunication services are available suffers as consumers cut spending. In the South African Space Agency. to all to the maximum extent possible by most affected sectors, the number of sharing best practices and initiatives put corporate layoffs and bankruptcies rises In Nigeria as well, the National Space in place during the COVID-19 crisis. throughout 2020, feeding a self- Rteearch and Development Agency, As the United Nations specialized agency reinforcing downward spiral. NASRDA has come under lockdown as for information and communication Specifically, the COVID-19 has adversely a n n o u n c e d b y t h e N i g e r i a n technologies, ITU has long advocated for affected commercial airlines, cruise government recently forcing the universal, reliable and affordable companies, and Oil and Gas sectors. agency to advise its scientists, connectivity, and we will continue to push Though, backhaul, consumer broadband, engineers and other staff to work from on all these fronts until everyone is business aviation and linear video should home as the agency is under lock and connected. The ITU explains that certainly prove critical in the times of key. To this efffect, public conferences, information and communication quarantine and increased bandwidth lectures and related evets have been technology can help defeat COVID-19 consumption and provide cushion to suspended forthwith. The launch and make us safer, stronger and more stock prices. campaigns under way at the Guiana connected. Companies around the world are Space Center (CSG) in French Guiana

5 APPOINTMENTS

technology companies through business Spacecom Appoints transformations that leveraged existing SES names Sandeep Dan Zajicek New CEO technologies and produced a culture of Jalan as new Chief innovation. Most recently, he served as Spacecom operator of the AMOS general manager of Zen Technologies USA, Financial Officer satellite fleet, announces that Mr. Dan where he developed global opportunities in the US and in the Middle East. Zajicek has been appointed by the SES announced the Board of Directors has board of director's as the company's As president and CEO of Quantum 3D, he appointed Sandeep Jalan as Chief new Chief Executive Officer. His helped relaunch the company's advanced Financial Officer (CFO) of SES. He will appointment officially begins on 1 April technologies to bring virtual, augmented assume the position from 6 May 2020. 2020. and mixed reality training and simulation to Sandeep has 30 years of experience in Mr. Itzik Shnaiberg, who has served as military and defense companies. financial and operational leadership roles Acting CEO since 1 January 2020, will In his more than 20 years of working in the across Asia and Europe. He is most return to his Deputy CEO position at global landscape, Shah co-founded recently the CFO of Aperam, a global leader that time. The board of directors wishes Locaxion, which developed an iPhone app in the stainless, electrical and specialty to thank Shnaiberg for filling the CEO that ranked in the top five of its industry over steel industry, a role he has held since position during this transition period. several years, as well as served as a 2014. Previously, he worked for the Zajicek comes to Spacecom from business consultant helping mid-size ArcelorMittal Group since 1999 where he Satcom Systems, owner of Gilat businesses develop a global business held various roles including the CFO of ArcelorMittal Long Carbon Europe and was Satcom, where he served as CEO from strategy. Shah holds an MBA from Pepperdine University, and a BS in part of the M&A team responsible for 2012, after fulfilling senior management numerous acquisitions in both steel and positions in the international satellite Computer Science from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. mining. He was also the CFO & Company s e r v i c e s i n d u s t r y. A t B e z e q Secretary for Ispat Alloys Ltd from 1993 to International he served as VP 1999. responsible for Regulatory Affairs, Kymeta appoints two International Business Development and HR as well as VP of its Business industry experts as Dr Mehul 'Micky' Mehta Development unit and CFO. Holding an strategic advisors to appointed New CEO for BA with Honors in Economics and Business Administration and an MBA the board Celestia UK from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Zajicek also served as Kymeta, the communications company that is making mobile global announce the Celestia UK has announced the Senior Deputy Director General of appointment of Dr Mehul 'Micky' Mehta as Israel's Communications Ministry and appointment of Gene Renuart, USAF (Ret), Founder & President of The Renuart Group, the new CEO to manage its ambitious in the National Budget Unit of Israel's and Matt Grob, Chief Technology Officer at growth plans. According to the company, he Finance Ministry. XCOM Labs, as senior advisors to the will be building its capability and reputation board. General Renuart brings 39 years of as a premier innovation house in the fields “I am very excited to join Spacecom,” military leadership experience and of Antenna, RF and Signal Processing commented Zajicek. “With four extensive expertise with the USAF. His last technologies. satellites serving communities in four military assignment was as commander of Before joining Celestia UK, Micky was co- different regions, and with three of North American Aerospace Defense founder and VP Modem Design at Blu those satellites servicing Africa, Command (NORAD) and commander of Wireless Technology Ltd, responsible for Spacecom is moving forward in United States Northern Command from PHY layer design and development. He meeting its long-term business goals. 2007 to 2010. Prior to that, he served as brings a wealth of technical and commercial We have a bright future in our fast- Military Assistant to two Secretaries of knowledge having worked in the wireless moving business environment, and I will Defense and as Director of Strategic Plans communications industry for over 25 years. bring our competitive advantages to the and Policy for the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Micky has deep understanding of several radio communication systems, with hands- fore and keep the company advancing on expertise in Digital Communications, into growing markets.” Mr. Grob is the Chief Technology Officer for XCOM Labs. Founded in 2018 by leaders in Information theory, Signal Processing, and wireless communications, XCOM Labs is a RF systems. Micky is also highly Aitech appoints new technology powerhouse dedicated to experienced in building teams, planning inventing transformative wireless and executing complex projects and general manager for technologies. Prior to working at XCOM managing Customer and Investor North America Labs, Matt was Executive Vice President relationships. and Chief Technology Officer at Qualcomm. Taking the helm at Celestia UK comes at a pivotal moment for the company, part of the Aitech has named Pratish Shah as “Gene and Matt bring a vast and diverse pan-European Celestia Technologies general manager for the North American Group, as Micky explains. "I am focused on business unit. In addition to leading the w e a l t h o f k n o w l e d g e , s t r a t e g i c relationships, and proven track records of generating value in the company through North American business unit, Shah will innovation and a can-do attitude. We are assist in developing and implementing the pioneering new organizations and profitable new businesses in the wireless already developing genuinely disruptive company's global growth initiatives as solutions for the 'difficult' problems in Radio well as manage technology offerings. services space,” said Doug Hutcheson, Executive Chairman of Kymeta. “Both Gene Communications. Celestia UK is a young start-up, one that is growing rapidly into an YaronMund, CEO of Aitech, noted, and Matt's global reach and experience are a great fit for where we are headed, and we exciting workplace and I intend to foster that “Pratish brings a business acumen and growth and value proposition over the strategic vision that is in-line with Aitech's are grateful to have their support to help us achieve our next phase of growth.” coming years. We are building a dynamic founding principle—to provide our and versatile team at Celestia UK, one that customers with unequivocal application has demonstrable theoretical and practical support backed by best-in-class knowledge across a range of different technologies.” Shah has led several IN THE NEWS

Eutelsat's Konnect National emergency: ITU launches new Africa to connect guidelines schools in the DRC In the face of the global disaster management," personnel in an emergency, with high speed coronavirus crisis, as in any s a y s I T U S e c r e t a r y - and advocate the need for day- other emergency, the speed General Houlin Zhao. "Now t o - d a y r e s o u r c e s a n d internet and efficiency of our response more than ever, the procedures that keep national is proportional to the level of i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f authorities prepared, especially Konnect Africa, a subsidiary of Eutelsat preparedness. To help comprehensive national in relation to maintaining vital Communications, Schoolap and Flash countries better manage e m e r g e n c y communications, the essential Services has announced a Memorandum of disaster response activities at telecommunication plans lifeline during emergencies. Understanding to connect several thousand a time when the frequency, can ensure there is effective schools across the Democratic Republic of intensity and human and and timely sharing of "When disaster strikes there is Congo (DRC) to the Internet as part of the economic impact of disasters information across all levels no time to think about what to Schoolap project. It aims to provide schools is on the rise worldwide, the of government, within do and how to organize with high speed internet connectivity, giving I n t e r n a t i o n a l affected communities and response. It is crucial that all them access to a digital platform of officially Telecommunication Union a m o n g h u m a n i t a r i a n stakeholders are prepared recognized educational content and high ( I T U ) l a u n c h e s n e w agencies to prioritize beforehand and ready to take quality teaching materials. g u i d e l i n e s f o r t h e response efforts and to action," says Doreen Bogdan- The first stage of the project aims to connect d e v e l o p m e n t a n d save lives.” Martin, Director of the ITU 3,600 private schools over the next 12 implementation of National A national emergency T e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n months, leveraging Konnect Africa's satellite Emergency Telecom Plans. telecommunication plan Development Bureau. "Mock capacity and technical expertise, notably in sets out a strategy to enable exercises including tabletop, terms of installation. These guidelines will assist and ensure communication talk-through and walk-through national authorities and availability during the exercises to full-scale drills, Each school will subscribe to a "Home policymakers in developing p h a s e s o f d i s a s t e r help to ensure smooth Unlimited or plus” package, giving it access to policies and regulations that mitigation, preparedness, emergency response among a high speed internet service. At a later stage, can ensure the continued use response and recovery by those involved in disaster it is planned to roll the project out to several o f t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n promoting coordination and m a n a g e m e n t a n d tens of thousands more schools, thereby networks and services before, engagement across all communications." responding to the requirement for digital during and after a disaster. levels of government, ITU has already assisted inclusion which is part of government policy. "The exceptional COVID-19 humanitarian agencies, several countries in developing Konnect Africa has been operating for over a crisis we are going through service providers and their national emergency year in the DRC, bringing broadband right now shows how vital communities at risk. telecommunication plans, connectivity to unserved or poorly served i n f o r m a t i o n a n d T h e G u i d e l i n e s a l s o setting up of early warning and areas, by delivering a solution that is communication technology highlight major areas of risk monitoring systems and the affordable, flexible and available networks and services are, during a disaster, provide provision of emergency everywhere. Currently operating with limited both to respond to the current justification for the funding t e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s capacity, Konnect Africa will see its in-orbit pandemic and to address of vital equipment and equipment. resources increase tenfold with the entry into service of the EUTELSAT KONNECT satellite in the autumn of 2020. With a total capacity of 75 Gbps, EUTELSAT KONNECT UAE students-built satellite to launch in June will be able to provide speeds of up to 100 Mbps with total or partial coverage of 40 A satellite that American University of Science and process and analyse the data African countries. University of Ras Al Khaimah Technology (KUST). from a ground station in the Konnect Africa CEO Jean-Claude Tshipama students are helping to MeznSat will be the first UAE. The processes and said: "This project highlights the major develop, build and test is student-built scientific e x p e r t i s e i n v o l v e d i n benefits of satellite internet in bridging the planned for launch on a satellite in the UAE. The monitoring the atmosphere are digital divide, as well as the efficiency of the Soyuz-2 rocket from Russia in project aims at providing the similar to those employed solutions deployed by the Konnect Africa June 2020, said Dr Abdul- UAE space industry with during conventional Earth teams. The entry into service of EUTELSAT Halim Jallad, Director and q u a l i f i e d w e l l - t r a i n e d Observation programs. The KONNECT in the coming months will be a Assistant Professor, Center of graduates through hands-on project will support Emirati milestone in our ability to better address the Information, Communication experience, while at the young people in developing the strong demand for connectivity from our and Networking Education same time opening windows skillsets necessary for the customers, ranging from individuals to and Innovation (ICONET). for advanced space-oriented UAE's ambitious National businesses and government agencies.” research relevant to the Space Program and its future Eutelsat says it will deliver “innovative” The MeznSat Nano-satellite is UAE. projects. services including packaged offers inspired d e s i g n e d t o d e t e c t The project has seen Using a visible camera as well by 'pay-asyou-go' models and Wi-Fi hotspots g r e e n h o u s e g a s undergraduate students as a shortwave infrared schemes. It says Wi-Fi hotspot access will be concentrations from an orbit of design and construct the spectrometer, the satellite will available for a “few cents” while family offers 565 km above the Earth. The MeznSat which will be used measure the abundance and will be optimized for a “few dozens” of dollars. project has successfully to collect and analyze data distribution of methane and High-grade enterprise services are also passed the critical design on carbon dioxide and c a r b o n d i o x i d e i n t h e proposed to enable videoconferencing, review stage with the satellite methane levels around the atmosphere. It will also provide storage, multimedia content development, currently undergoing the final UAE. The project seeks to valuable insight into the and safe and reliable communication. Some stages of construction in the realize the Space Agency's concentration of nutrients in of the first partners to support Konnect Africa purpose-built cleanroom at strategic goals of capacity the coastal waters of the include: AfrikaNet GoSat; Bentley Walker; AURAK's Space Lab before it development, promoting Arabian Gulf, which will allow China Telecom, which is establishing moves on to the testing phase scientific research and for more accurate predictions communication links between Africa and in March 2020, a statement coordinating national space of algal blooms and supports Asia-Pacific; Terrace Projects, a managed said. sector activities. the timely implementation of satellite service solution provider in South The project is a collaboration Once in orbit, the team of r e l e v a n t p r e c a u t i o n a r y Africa; amongst others. between the UAE Space students will then monitor, measures, it said. Agency, AURAK and Khalifa ANALYSIS IEDs: Insurgents misusing smart mobile satellite phones

Source: US Army

In combat environment, mobile satellite terminals are inadvertently playing more and more roles in remote control of Impoverished Explosive Devices, IEDs, as leading industry experts argued that early signal detection can block triggering this capabilities.

As Africa’s counterinsurgency campaigns insurgents' IEDs line the roads waiting solder together weapons of strategic continues insurgents’ IED technology has for ambush of moving trucks, armored influence on the battlefield. As a result, advanced rapidly. While 10 years ago, personnel carriers. So far, the military improvised threats have outgrown the term insurgent explosives were primitive wire-to- has developed countermeasures in IEDs. battery affairs, they have evolved into bombs partnership with foreign agencies. Since detonated through encrypted radio signals. the 2015, at the peak of the military As at today, no other weapons have shaped campaigns, the uses of IEDs by the “No other weapons the battlefields like the IED. In an IED laden insurgent have adversely affected the field troops entrusted with terrorists clearance Nigerian military strategy. have shaped the were forced to confine themselves to massive armored vehicles and travel at high speed or The IED has a long history. It was Guy battlefields like the plow through farmers' fields to avoid roads Fawkes' tool of strategic influence in entirely as roadside bombs cause a majority 1605. More recently, though, the ubiquity IED” of casualties. of technical knowledge and the collapsing cost of technology have made Today, troops have learnt to sweep the battle In Nigeria's North East, over 70 per cent of the IED a readily accessible and field terrains with metal detectors to identify, deaths in battle fields, markets and the reproducible weapon of nearly infinite monitor and detonate IEDs. The IED has municipality have been traced to IEDs. variety. Given the vertical adoption rate proved to be the costliest feature of Arterial roads, markets and communities of new consumer electronics, each new counterinsurgency wars. Also, over 60 laden with IEDs were usually lockdown by the programmable circuit board, hobby percent of all fatalities in Iraq and half of all authorities. A hosts of strategic gains from the robot, and sensor offers new American fatalities in Afghanistan, more than military air campaigns were often lost as opportunities for motivated amateurs to 3,500 in total, were caused by IEDs. Unfortunately, global counterinsurgency ANALYSIS

GPS, allowing the user to know or to campaigns are still challenged with failure to and timely blocking of incoming call that transmit its position by voice or by SMS. counter the improvised explosive device can be used as IED trigger from the The system has the capacity for 13,750 (IED). In a protracted fight in IED-laden Thuraya user terminal, it has become simultaneous voice circuits with a call ground, the initiative remains with the bomb necessary to keep situation awareness blocking probability of 2%. The Thuraya-2 about uplink and downllink frequency band satellite acts as an on-ground spare. in order to identify the time interval during which the The Thuraya system has been designed connection initialization to be compatible with the GSM network. between two user terminals The dual-mode hand-held terminals are of starts. a similar dimension to current GSM .Thuraya's X5-Touch is the phones. Vehicular dual-mode phones are first satellite phone to run on also supported, as are satellite mode only the Android operating fixed terminals and payphones. The system. The operating mobile link operates in the L band, system provides users with specifically the 1626.5–1660.5 MHz for a multitude of apps on uplink (UL) and 1525.0–1559.0 MHz for purchase, while developers downlink bands. The Thuraya system is gain the freedom to develop defined by global mobile radio ETSI and customize bespoke standards apps to meet the unique needs of device users. This The Thuraya system operates via one or builder. While billions of dollars have been complements the 'bring your own more geostationary satellites, a Satellite spent to develop an electronic signal jamming application' (BYOA) concept, where Operations Center (SOC), a number of device to stop IED triggers that use two-way customers can download any app of their Gateway Stations (GS), and a large radios or garage door openers, the insurgents choice. number of user terminals, referred to as are switching to laser trigger devices, thereby Mobile Earth Stations (MES). The range of negating the investment. An unrivalled 5.2-inch HD touchscreen possible MESs includes hand portable protected by a rugged Gorilla® glass terminals (handsets), vehicle terminals, “It is difficult to calculate the total cost for anti- display, front and rear camera, and high- and fixed terminals. The Gateway stations IED effort, but even with such significant capacity battery bring everyday have external interfaces to existing fixed investment, still approximately half of all smartphone functionality to the remote telecommunications infrastructure as well military casualties are reportedly from IED environments of satellite communication. as to the GSM mobility management attacks,” says a military source. Meanwhile, the X5-Touch's omni- networks. directional satellite antenna ensures Despite efforts to control access to IED uninterrupted communications in more Generally, the Thuraya system provides components, the devices actually got than 160 countries, including a number two-way connectivity between a user cheaper over the course of the wars even as across Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe. terminal and a fixed network subscriber, armor, electronic jammers, and mine In addition, full dual-mode and dual-SIM using L-band and Feeder links to the detectors became more expensive. capabilities provide the flexibility to s a t e l l i t e A c c e s s t o f i x e d effortlessly switch between satellite and telecommunications networks is provided Among the insurgent's standard complement terrestrial networks. by connections through the Gateway of arms, bullets, mortars, grenades the IED Station. Fixed network connectivity provides unique advantages. The IED, after includes the Public Switched Telephone all, is a weapon that waits. It does not require Network (PSTN); Public Land Mobile the insurgent to expose himself to employ it, “In recent asymmetric Networks (PLMNs); and Private Networks balancing risk in favor of the bomber. Unlike (PN). The system provides twoway with a firefight, when troops take on a warfare, mobile connectivity between two user terminals in roadside bomb, the best possible outcome is the same or different spot beams by to return to the status quo ante. There is no satellite terminals are performing direct connection of the two L- opportunity to gain the initiative and take the band to L-band connections in the fight to the enemy. playing more and satellite. This special case of single- more important role in hopped terminal to terminal calls. The case of Thuraya Phones remote control of Geostationary Earth Orbit systems such In all these asymmetric warfare, mobile as INMARSAT and THURAYA, and the satellite communication systems is still Improvised Explosive Non-geostationary Earth Orbit systems playing more and more important role in such as GLOBALSTAR, IRIDIUM and ICO remote control of Improvised Explosive Devices (IED)”, have offered wider and different coverage, Devices (IED), especially in an environment signal structure and system of frequency where other communication technologies management. In general, effective have either limited or no coverage in The Thuraya satellite system launched in satellite communication system signal particular area. 2001 by a Private company Thuraya analysis would help in detecting satellite While commercial satellite communications Satellite Telecommunications Co.Ltd, terminals activities in particular areas both play an increasingly vital role as public based in United Arab Emirates,now owned in uplink and downlink direction in order to communication, in military operations, it by Al Yahsat, allows 2 portable terminals to identify particular satellite communication inadvertently carry potential risk of their communicate on a local cover Middle East, systems, analyze signal structure and if it misusing from adversary side. There are North and Central Africa, Europe, Central is possible to identify single user terminal s e v e r a l s c e n a r i o s h o w s a t e l l i t e Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The within data stream. communication can be misused. One of them scheduled life-span of the system is 12-15 is the coordination of adversary attacks years. It provide services such as voice, fax against friendly units during operations. and data in 9,6 kb/s, SMS, INTERNET at the bit rate of 9,6Kb/s, and localization by Scientist have revealed that for successful MARKEY ANALYSIS

Future missions under COVID 19 threats

Here are some of the ambitious future space missions that will be affected as the global community addresses the global coronavirus/COVID-19 situation.

COVID-19, the disease caused by the over a million kilometres. JUpiter ICy moons Explorer, novel coronavirus, has sickened more than JUICE 600,000 people worldwide to date, with Breakthrough Starshot more than 5,000 confirmed deaths. Both of Operated by ESA, the mission was designed Operated by Breakthrough Initiatives, the to collect detailed observations of Jupiter and those numbers are bound to rise mission objective was to send spacecraft considerably because we're still in the early three of its largest moons, Ganymede, to Alpha Centauri, our neighbouring star Callisto and Europa. When the explorer stages of the pandemic, health officials system, in a journey lasting only 20 years. have stressed. The economic impacts of expected to arrives in the Jovian system in Announced in 2016, the mission sounds 2030, its main focus is to understand the COVID-19 are already significant.NASA like the stuff of pure sci-fi. has put its Ames Research Center in conditions that might have led to habitable Breakthrough Initiatives are a group environments on Jupiter's satellites, Silicon Valley and Marshall Space Flight including the likes of the late Stephen Center in Alabama on "mandatory telework particularly on Ganymede. JUICE will also Hawking and Mark Zuckerberg, and will provide the first subsurface sounding of status" until further notice, after employees launch 1,000 tiny light sail spacecraft at each facility tested positive for COVID- Enceledus, which measures the minimal called StarChips on a 4.37 light year- thickness of the most recently active regions. 19. Then, on March 17, NASA elevated all journey to Alpha Centauri at 15-20 per cent of its centers and facilities to the same of the speed of light using lasers on Earth. Square Kilometer Array status, with the exception of "mission- The mission hopes to test the possibility of essential personnel." A global project with 12 member countries, ultra-fast space travel and will flyby headquartered in Jodrell Bank, UK, the Proxima Centauri b, an exoplanet in the James Webb Space Telescope mission was designed to establish the world's habitable zone of the star system. most sensitive radio telescope, addressing a The telescope's four infrared instruments wide range of cosmic questions. The will search for the first galaxies formed after ExoMars 2020 enormous array of dishes across the deserts the Big Bang, determine how galaxies Operated by ESA and Roscosmos to of South Africa and Australia will be 50 times evolved, observe the formation of stars discover if life ever existed on Mars, the more sensitive than the Hubble Space from the first stages, measure the physical mission first stage, the Trace Gas Orbiter Telescope, which will help test the theory of and chemical properties of planetary has already arrived in orbit around the Red relativity by Albert Einstein, measure the systems, including our own Solar System, Planet and is on the hunt for methane and effect hypothetically caused by dark energy, and investigate the potential for life in those other gases, which suggest the presence and discover more about the large-scale systems. of organic compounds, in the atmosphere. structure of the cosmos. Like the Hubbes Space Tepescope before Stage 2 is a rover that will land in 2020 and This is only the first phase, which is only 10 it, the mission is expected to bring some drill two metres under the Martian surface, per cent of the total size. Phase 2 will be magnificent images from the JWST, but at before analysing samples in an on-board sensitive enough for us to be able to see as nearly seven times larger we'll be able to lab in search for organic compounds. It is far back as 300,000 years after the Big Bang see deeper into our Universe and closer at hoped that at this depth any well- and perhaps pick up faint radio signals from the celestial bodies in our own Solar preserved organic matter will be safe from any potential extra-terrestrial civilisation. System.Unlike Hubble, which measures the harsh radiation at the planet's surface visible, near-ultraviolet and near-infrared due to the thin atmosphere. light, JWST focuses on the mid- to long- The modern Space Race infrared spectrum, which means it will be Operated by a consortium of companies such better able to penetrate dust and clouds to Prospector-1 as Blue Origin, SpaceX and Virgin Galactic, study dimmer, cooler objects. Although still far from being confirmed, the among others, the mission aim to provide mission operated by deep space reusable space vehicles able to reliably Laser Interferometer Space industries, DSi plans to send Prospector 1 transport people and resources to and from to a nearby asteroid and assess its space. The modern Space Race is already Antenna suitability for mining precious materials. It going at warp speed at the moment, and Operated by ESA, LISA aims to detect and will then land on the asteroid, creating barely a month goes by without SpaceX measure gravitational waves produced by humanity's first commercial base on announcing the successful landing of a compact binary systems and mergers of another celestial body. reusable rocket or Virgin Galactic creeping supermassive black holes. Gravitational ever closer to delivering tourists into space. waves are the ripples in spacetime that This is all in preparation for a much grander The big issue is cost, as currently only eight Albert Einstein predicted in his theory of mission, which is to build a new type of tourists have visited space, costing between general relativity. It took nearly 100 years spacecraft that will mine the asteroid on an $20-40m a time, but this could be massively for them to be confirmed by the LIGO industrial scale, and then bring the harvest reduced with reusable vehicles and more detector here on Earth, but the LISA back into Earth's orbit. The company efficient transport, with Virgin Galactic mission will use three satellites precisely hopes that by being a commercial rather offering tickets for a comparatively paltry measured around 2.5 million km apart that than government project, they are able to $250k. Once this reusable technology has will be able to detect much fainter reduce the total time from start to been perfected, it opens the way to launching gravitational waves, with signals smaller completion of the mission. manned crews to the Moon or Mars, and than 20 picometres (tinier than an atom) beyond. IN THE NEWS

ST Engineering iDirect NOVELSAT, Gilat Telecom restore internet named “company to connectivity in DRC watch” at the Mobility NOVELSAT announced a n d f i b e r - b a s e d shareholders in WIOCC, collaboration with Gilat connectivity solutions in owners of the Eastern Africa Innovation Awards Telecom for quick restoration Africa, Asia and the Submarine Cable System of internet connectivity M i d d l e E a s t . W i t h (EASSY), and in the West 2020 following West Africa Cable successful deployments A f r i c a C a b l e S y s t e m System (WACS) undersea in 50 countries, we (WACS), with undersea cable cut. The severe cable consistently deliver high- fiber optic cable systems ST Engineering iDirect, a company of ST damage caused internet quality, cost-effective and connecting eastern and Engineering North America, has been named downtimes and slow speeds efficient communication western Africa to the rest of the 'Company to Watch' at the Mobile Satellite affecting all internet providers solutions to telcos, ISPs, the world. We provide space Users Association's (MSUA) Satellite 2020 in the Democratic Republic of governments, enterprise segments over numerous Mobility Awards. As the demand for always-on, C o n g o ( D R C ) . U s i n g c u s t o m e r s a n d satellites including Intelsat, on-the-move connectivity continues to grow NOVELSAT's high capacity i n t e r n a t i o n a l Telesat, Hellas Sat, ABS, exponentially, ST Engineering iDirect has been connectivity solutions, Gilat organizations. SES-NewSkies and others. recognized for its leading mobility position and Telecom was able to quickly Our services on land, at As a subsidiary of Eurocom solutions that empower its customers to deliver r e s t o r e c o n n e c t i v i t y, s e a a n d i n f l i g h t Group Gilat Satcom has a a broad range of services across all mobility providing its MNO and ISP transcend the barriers of strong financial stability. segments. The company also received customers a resilient and c o m m u n i c a t i o n P e r c e p t i v e f i n a n c i a l recognition for its vision and passion to facilitate stable satellite network with infrastructures reaching analysis, combined with seamless connectivity as new constellations, nearly uninterrupted service the most remote locations strategic partnerships applications and markets emerge. a n d b e t t e r c u s t o m e r experience. on the planet. Our ensures that the group's superior service is holdings have the strong The accolade, which was presented at an “NOVELSAT delivered Gilat maintained by a highly backing necessary to exclusive ceremony that took place as part of Telecom with high capacity p r o f e s s i o n a l a n d encourage growth.Gilat SATELLITE 2020, follows ST Engineering's satellite modems on very d e d i c a t e d s t a f f , Satcom covers Africa, from acquisition of Newtec Group (renamed ST short notice,” said Gary outstanding engineering high-density urban centers Engineering iDirect) in October 2019. As one Drutin, NOVELSAT CEO. skills and excellent to the most remote areas, combined business group, ST Engineering "This accomplishment is a organization. with fiber and VSAT iDirect is bringing forward a strong and unified testament to the quality of our communication services to portfolio of products across all mobility markets, operations team and of The company operates offer reliable, cost-effective offering the innovation, scale and speed to course our leading high- t h r e e i n t e r n a t i o n a l communication solutions to market that its customers require to succeed in performance broadband teleports in Europe and S O H O s . W e p r o v i d e the evolving industry landscape. The ultimate technology.” the Middle East, fourteen affordable connectivity goal is to create the world's most advanced G i l a t S a t c o m i s a hubs/PoPs in Africa and through extensive satellite satellite ground network infrastructure communication solutions two PoPs in Europe. In a n d f i b e r - b a s e d capabilities – bringing together the companies' provider that offers satellite a d d i t i o n , w e a r e communication platforms. technology heritage and passion for innovation. “We are extremely pleased to be named the Liquid Telecom provides free Wi-Fi to 'Company to Watch' by the MSUA at such a pivotal time within the satellite sector,” said students, health workers Kevin Steen, CEO at ST Engineering iDirect. “Our industry is entering a new and exciting era; Leading communications – that serves mobile cloud services to all,” said we are on the cusp of realizing new services and solutions o p e r a t o r s , c a r r i e r s , N i c R u d n i c k , L i q u i d revolutionary technologies such as Non- provider Liquid Telecom has enterprise, media and Telecom's group CEO. Geostationary-Satellite Orbit constellations and come to the aid of tertiary content companies and “This includes businesses 5G, and a strategic element to the industry's students and health workers retail customers with high- and communities in some success at this time of change is the ground in the country by providing speed, reliable connectivity, of the most remote parts of segment. By combining the strengths of both selected institutions and hosting and co-location and the continent.” Newtec and ST Engineering iDirect, we are hospitals with free Wi-Fi. digital services. It has built Nick O'Donohoe, CDC redefining ground-infrastructure capabilities to Liquid Telecom regional chief Africa's largest independent Group Plc CEO, said: drive industry-wide interoperability, broadband executive for Southern Africa fibre network (approaching “Digital infrastructure is still connectivity of mass-scale and to enable our Mr Wellington Makamure 70,000 kilometres), and a major problem for Africa's customers to offer unified, value-added made the announcement at operates data centres in governments, people and services, whether they are on the move, or a press conference this Johannesburg, Cape Town i t s b u s i n e s s e s , s o wherever they are in the world. This award is a afternoon. a n d N a i r o b i , w i t h a improving access to testament to this innovation and commitment.” The telecoms company is combined potential 19,000 affordable and quality Through its vision, ST Engineering iDirect is p a r t n e r i n g r e l e v a n t square metres of rack space internet is central to Africa's driving the industry forward in collaboration with Government ministries and and 80 MW of power. This is d e v e l o p m e n t a n d a global customer network of top industry the official launch date is yet in addition to offering cloud- economic growth. Our players, empowering the ecosystem to build, to be set. They are targeting based services, such as investment in Liquid integrate and deploy satellite end points and 13 major hospitals as well as M i c r o s o f t O f f i c e 3 6 5 , Telecom – which is one of services that will enable new applications and 48 colleges and universities Microsoft Azure, and digital C D C ' s b i g g e s t e v e r open new revenue streams. across the country. Seven content including Netflix and investments – plays an The MSUA is a non-profit organization hospitals have so far Kwesé TV. i m p o r t a n t p a r t i n dedicated to promoting satellite mobility benefited. “Our vision is to give every addressing infrastructure innovation and development of the satellite Liquid Telecom is a leading individual on the African bottlenecks and helps bring mobility market worldwide. The judging panel communications solutions continent the right to be about the innovation and awarded ST Engineering iDirect the accolade provider across 13 countries connected by bringing efficiency gains that result based on its mobile applicability, currently in use – primarily in Eastern, r e l i a b l e , h i g h - s p e e d f r o m b e t t e r i n t e r n e t in the field by customers and how the company Central and Southern Africa broadband connectivity and access.” is addressing future market needs. Pay TV

Supporting the growth of broadcasting in Nigeria

MultiChoice Pay TV Group's services came to Nigeria in 1993 and have since contributed significantly to the evolution of broadcasting in the country, according to its report

In over 20 years of operation, MultiChoice different backgrounds to join its distribution disciplines, including production technique Nigeria Group has grown its presence in network and develop small local and script writing. It has been suggested Nigeria, setting up additional entities such as businesses. There are over 7,700 agents that employment opportunities have been its local content production entity MSS Local as well as over 170 installers who earn created for other agents in the industry, such Productions Limited Nigeria and Africa commission payments for the various as actors, as well as support staff. Airtime Sales Nigeria Limited . It expanded services carried out on behalf of its activities: MultiChoice Nigeria Group's MultiChoice Nigeria. The agents are Promoting Nigerian sports service offering spans platforms such as encouraged to move up the value chain; of MultiChoice Pay TV Group has provided Satellite (DStv brand), Digital Terrestrial the 14 megadealers, 11 grew into this role direct investment into a number of sports to Television (“DTT”, GOtv brand), online and over time and, over half of them started out upgrade infrastructure and support the mobile and various value added services as installers. Agents benefit from training development of professionalism in the like personal video recorders (“PVR”), high- opportunities, such as customer sales industry. Between 2011 and 2015, definition television (“HDtv”) and Pay per training, teaching them skills applicable in a MultiChoice Pay TV Group invested a total View (the “BoxOffice” service). The entities variety of other ventures. of $38.6m in licensing fees paid to the local in Nigeria have further interactions with football association, the production and entities outside of Nigeria, including Multi- Supporting local content marketing of local sports content through Choice Africa, SuperSport and M-NET. production MSS Local Productions Limited Nigeria and In terms of its content offering, it started to MultiChoice Nigeria Group has been part of SuperSport. The majority of the funds invest in local content and vernacular the local film production industry, widely received by the football association are channels through MSS Local Productions known as Nollywood, since 2003. Over the distributed to football clubs who now receive Limited Nigeria. This reflects the company's last 10 years, MultiChoice Nigeria has around N40m each year. It has been efforts to expand and cater for a wider range contributed to the visibility on-air of Nigerian reported that MultiChoice Pay TV Group's of preferences among Nigerian consumers. culture by supporting the development of funds, as well as additional revenues to As a result, its subscriber numbers have the Africa Magic channel group, consisting clubs and the league earned as a result of steadily increased and have more than of eight regional channels. Its production broadcasting, could also be utilised to doubled over the last two years. entity MSS Local Productions Limited upgrade infrastructure and invest in sports Nigeria has produced and commissioned talent as well as growing related Digitalisation and digital Nollywood movies and producing professional skills such as club prominent shows such as Tinsel, Jara and management. This has allowed salaries for switchover players and other agents to rise. MultiChoice Pay TV Group's encourages the 53 Extra. More than two thirds of the take-up of digital broadcasting services content on these channels is produced in through its service innovations and had Nigeria directly, the remainder of content is Stimulating take-up of DTT more subscribers in Nigeria. It has further produced across Africa for the Nigerian MultiChoice Nigeria launched its DTT supported digital migration and has provided market. service under the GOtv brand in 2012, subsidies on set-top boxes to its customers The demand for local content generated by adding to its existing DStv satellite service worth $101.8m. MultiChoice Nigeria's broadcasting has and mobile TV services. This service Also, the GOtv service is provided using its supported the market of local producers. In provides subscribers with access to a own DTT, rolled out across all of Nigeria's 36 2014/15, content was licensed from 211 multitude of channels using the latest DVB- states, providing coverage to all segments of Nigerian production houses, opening the T2 technology at more affordable prices. In the Nigeria's population. The totals spend on playing field to more producers. In the past, March 2015, there were around 2.2m transmitter sites alone exceeded $95.5m. MSS Local Productions Limited Nigeria subscribers across the DStv and GOtv MultiChoice Pay TV Group has further focussed on acquiring licenced content service. The increase in GOtv subscriber invested in educational initiatives, most from producers directly but has increasingly numbers illustrates how the service has importantly the setting up of so called started to commission content to be stimulated take-up of DTT services in the MultiChoice Resource Centres (“MRC”). In produced exclusively for MultiChoice population. In March 2015, GOtv subscriber this initiative, MultiChoice Nigeria provides Nigeria, thereby reducing the risk inherent numbers were fivefold their earlier figures. schools with the means to use audiovisual in film productions to producers. Since March 2012, there have only been teaching methods in class using educational seven months where subscriber numbers content recorded on its decoders donated to It has further facilitated in the physical have not increased, and in most cases the school. The budget for this initiative is infrastructure through its production studios subscriber numbers increased by over 10% around N100m per year (c. $500,000); the and outside broadcasting vans. It invested per month, even up to 48%. These total expenditure between 2012 and 2015 on over $32.4m $5m of which was spent on subscriptions need to be considered in this programme amounted to $1.8m. local suppliers. MultiChoice Nigeria has addition to MultiChoice Nigeria's DStv MultiChoice' MRCs had been set up in 332 organized training to empower and uplift subscribers, who also enjoy digital services schools in 30 states and over 60,000 production standards; training conducted and thus have digitally migrated already. students have benefitted from this over the last four financial years alone The number of DStv subscribers have more programme since its initiation. MultiChoice added up to a total value of around than doubled since March 2010, and have Nigeria has also allowed people from $208,000 and spanned a number of continuously increased every year INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Disruption times as satellite industry faces COVID-19 threats

The satellite industry revenue situation is worsening as COVID-19 adversely affects key sectors including commercial airlines, cruise companies, oil and gas industry and consumer expenditures. Spacewatchafrica reports.

Following the announcement by the South uncertain at best. In response, ITU and African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, measures decided by the French its partners are proactively shifting the regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) government, launch campaigns under dates of events as per above. pandemic, the SANSA public tours, learner way at the Guiana Space Center The World Information Society (WSIS) visits and the space talk public lecture (CSG) in French Guiana have been Forum is the world's largest annual series has been cancelled with immediate suspended. This exceptional measure gathering of the 'ICT for development' effect until further notice. These measures was designed to protect the health of community and aims to foster digital was taken out of concern for the health and employees and the local population, transformation and global partnerships safety of the general public, learners, while also maintaining the security t o a c h i e v e t h e S u s t a i n a b l e tourists and the staff and students at needed to prepare for scheduled Development Goals (SDGs). SANSA, according to the South African launches. These launch preparations Action-oriented, global & inclusive, the SpaceAgency. will resume as soon as allowed by AI for Good Global Summit is the leading SANSA, the agency said will continue to health conditions, according to CNES, United Nations platform on AI (artificial monitor the developments around COVID- the French Space Agency. intelligence) and its goal is to identify 19 and ensure that the public lectures and practical applications of AI and scale the public tours at the SANSA Hermanus In addition, the International those solutions for global impact. facility are re-opened once the situation has Telecommunication Union (ITU) and stabilised. its partners have decided to postpone Also a joint Russian-European mission Consequent upon the Covid-19 pandemic, the dates for the upcoming World to Mars has beenSadeeq postponed Omeiza for two and the need to fully implement the Information Society (WS?IS) Forum, years, according to the Russian and originally scheduled European space agencies, while citing for in April, and now the novel coronavirus and technical from 31 August to 4 issues. September 2020, as "We have made a difficult but well- well as the AI for weighed decision to postpone the G o o d G l o b a l launch to 2022," said Dmitry Rogozin, Summit, originally in head of Russia's Roscosmos agency. May and now from The unmanned Exo Mars mission aims 21 to 25 September to place a robot on the Red Planet to find 2020.. out whether life is present. O n F r i d a y, 2 8 It was scheduled to launch later this year February 2020, the after experiencing several delays. Government of the Officials at the European and Russian S w i s s spaces agencies said they agreed to C o n f e d e r a t i o n delay the mission until August or announced and put September 2022 to carry out further into effect a ban on tests. large-scale events Following recommendations by which involve more European and Russian inspectors, than 1000 people. "ExoMars experts concluded that the The ban is slated to tests necessary to make all the last until 15 March at components of the spacecraft for the the earliest and the Mars adventure need more time to upcoming weeks are complete," the statement said. INDUSTRY INSIGHT

European Space Agency director general This was not an easy decision. Some companies have canceled or Jan Wörner said both sides wanted to be Fortunately, we did not have to make curtailed their participation in the Satellite "100 percent" sure of a successful this decision alone, and are grateful to 2020 conference. SES and OneWeb, two mission. our NAB Show community for engaging major commercial satellite operators, "We cannot allow ourselves any margin of with us as we grappled with the rapidly- said they would not send employees to error. More verification activities will evolving situation. This Show is as much the conference. “In view of the deepening ensure a safe trip and the best scientific yours as it is ours, and it is important to concerns around COVID-19 virus, SES results on Mars," he said in a statement us that we move forward together. has made the difficult decision to not send that did not mention the virus. its employees to Satellite 2020 and its Rogozin specifically pointed to the impact For nearly 100 years, NAB Show has related events,” SES said. The company of the outbreak of the coronavirus in provided superior value and the best said Steve Collar, its CEO, would still Europe saying the "exacerbation of the possible experience for exhibitors and attend the conference to honor his public epidemiological" situation had hampered attendees. We knew that if we could not commitments. the scheduled launch. deliver on those expectations, we would “Following escalation of coronavirus, we The Mars mission has been marred by a not move forward. More importantly, have made the difficult decision to series of technical problems and delays. keeping the community safe and withdraw from Satellite 2020,” OneWeb In August last year, the ESA identified healthy is NAB's highest priority; said. “We'll miss our friends at the show. problems with the mission's parachute therefore, we are deferring to the Our customers and partners remain of the system, raising questions over whether developing consensus from public utmost importance to us, and we are the launch would go ahead in 2020. health authorities on the challenges eager to rearrange meetings and posed by coronavirus. conversations.” According to the organizers of Satellite CABSAT is postponed We are still weighing the best potential 2020, 12 percent of the conference's In light of the evolving global path forward, and we ask you for your exhibitors and 10 percent of attendees developments around the COVID-19 patience as we do so. We are committed have communicated they will not join the virus, CABSAT, the Middle East & Africa's to exploring all possible alternatives so conference on site in Washington. Others leading event for content creation, that we can provide a productive setting are changing their pre-planned meetings, production & broadcast and satellite & where the industry can engage with the but still attending, the organizers said. distribution has been postponed from 31 latest technology, hear from industry More than 15,000 people from 107 March – 2 April to 26 – 28 October 2020. thought leaders and make the game- countries attended the Satellite 2019 Our decision came after much changing connections that drive our conference last year. deliberation in consultation with the industry forward. “While COVID-19 has caused some event's main participants and industry In the US, the annual meeting of companies to impose travel restrictions, stakeholders, who have strongly planetary scientists near Houston has we are expecting the majority of our endorsed our prioritisation of the been canceled due to concerns about exhibitors and attendees to be joining us collective interests of both the global the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, and on site,” the Satellite 2020 organizers exhibitors and the key buyers from the NASA has instructed its 1,200 said. “We have been monitoring hotel region. With the event now rescheduled employees at a field center in California reservations for cancellations and to 26-28 October 2020, CABSAT shall to work from home until further notice contacting attendees pre-show via facilitate greater participation across our after a worker there tested positive for telephone to reconfirm attendance.” global communities, enabling more the illness. “NASA's Ames Research inclusive access for all. Center now go to mandatory telework status effective immediately and until The National Association of Broadcasters further notice,” the center's emergency has also said that the organisation will not management office jas said. hold the NAB Show in April due to public health concerns about coronavirus. NAB NASA also request its 17,000 President/CEO Gordon Smith made the employees to voluntarily work from announcement. “We are currently home Friday to rehearse procedures considering a number of potential that the agency could have to use if the alternatives to create the best possible virus spreads further. “As always, the experience for our community,” Smith protection and care of our NASA team is said. The show markets itself the world's the top priority,” NASA said, “As the “largest and most comprehensive coronavirus (COVID-19) situation c o n v e n t i o n e n c o m p a s s i n g t h e continues to evolve, NASA is taking convergence of media, entertainment v a r i o u s a c t i o n s t o m a i n t a i n and technology.” It drew approximately preparedness. 91,400 people to Las Vegas in 2019, and featured some 1,600+ exhibitors. Further more, the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference 51 has been In the interest of addressing the health cancelled due to concerns about and safety concerns of our stakeholders C O V I D - 1 9 , ” a c c o r d i n g t o t h e and in consultation with partners organizers. “This difficult decision has throughout the media and entertainment been made after a careful assessment industry, we have decided not to move of the risks as determined by the forward with NAB Show in April. We are Centers for Disease Control and World currently considering a number of Health Organization; consultation with potential alternatives to create the best NASA Planetary Science Division possible experience for our community. leadership; and consideration of community feedback. IN THE NEWS

Rural areas of ST Engineering iDirect' Newtec Dialog awarded Britain promised WTA Teleport Technology of the Year better internet ST Engineering iDirect, a d e f e n c e , b r o a d c a s t , or entering a new sector, Households in rural areas of Britain have company of ST Engineering aeronautical, land-mobile, operators can utilize the Dialog been promised better internet speeds as the North America, has been maritime, cellular backhaul platform to increase profitability Government pledged £5billion towards presented with the World a n d t r u n k i n g . in a very manageable and providing fast broadband to 'the hardest to Teleport Association's 2020 scalable way. We are delighted reach places' in the Budget. Teleport Technology of the ST Engineering iDirect's to have received this prestigious It said the rollout of gigabit-capable Year for its Newtec Dialog® Thomas Van den Driessche, recognition from the WTA for the broadband will improve connectivity in the platform at SATELLITE 2020 President of the Executive p l a t f o r m ' s c a p a b i l i t i e s . ” most difficult to reach 20 per cent of the Strategic Board & Chief country. Chancellor Rishi Sunak also Giving operators the ability to Commercial Officer, was The award follows a number of announced that 95 per cent of the country offer a variety of mobile and presented with the esteemed new contract wins for the Dialog will receive 4G coverage within the next five fixed services through a award during the 25th annual platform. These include an years thanks to a £510million investment future-proof system, the Te l e p o r t A w a r d s f o r agreement with satellite into the shared rural mobile phone network. Dialog platform features a Excellence Ceremony and operator Kacific, that is using The Government said that this level of flexible licensing model and Luncheon, held during this the platform to expand its funding will be 'more than matched' by the modular hub architecture y e a r ' s S A T E L L I T E broadband service delivery in mobile industry who are supporting this t h a t e n a b l e s s e r v i c e Conference and Exhibition in underserved areas. Speedcast, scheme to improve mobile coverage. The providers to “pay-as-they- W a s h i n g t o n D . C . a p r o v i d e r o f r e m o t e Department for Digital, Culture, Media and grow.” It is easy to upgrade, c o m m u n i c a t i o n a n d I T Sport also intends to legislate to ensure that with service providers able to “As the satellite industry solutions, has also deployed all new build homes will be built with gigabit- add outbound carriers, return continues to go through a Dialog to meet current and capable broadband. Gigabit-capable t e c h n o l o g i e s , a n d period of unprecedented and future growth requirements of broadband is typically delivers speeds of throughput capabilities to rapid change, successful global maritime and enterprise 1,000Mbps – a Gigabit – 40 times faster than address new opportunities business strategies need to markets. standard superfast broadband. and markets quickly and be based on platforms and Sunak said: 'We are committed to levelling directly. technologies that embrace This signing followed Marlink's up across every region and nation in the UK c h a n g e a n d i n c r e a s e selection of the platform to and that is why we are making the largest The range of applications the profitability – and this is cover both enterprise and ever public investment into broadband. 'This platform addresses includes exactly what the Dialog does,” maritime market segments, investment delivers on our promises to the consumer and enterprise said Van den Driessche. f u r t h e r e x t e n d i n g i t s British people, boosting growth and Ve r y S m a l l A p e r t u r e “Whether increasing their c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h S T prosperity across the country.' Broadband Terminals, government and market share in a core market E n g i n e e r i n g i D i r e c t . and mobile investments were first announced in the Conservative manifesto in December. ST Engineering iDirect unveils next generation Holly Niblett, head of digital at Compare the Market, said: 'The Chancellor's commitment Mx-DMA technology at SATELLITE 2020 to improve broadband connectivity in rural areas will be a welcome relief for homes which have been suffering with unacceptably ST Engineering iDirect, a Service providers can now this that will be integral for the poor speeds for years. 'Ofcom figures show company of ST Engineering cover a myriad of use cases in f u t u r e s u c c e s s o f o u r that there are currently 155,000 UK North America, introduces its a single return link, from cruise customers, and we remain properties without a decent broadband M x - D M A M R C , m u l t i - ships and large enterprise dedicated to protecting their connection and our research suggests 63 resolution coding technology c u s t o m e r s t o S C A D A investment with us, today and per cent of homes suffer broadband outages at SATELLITE 2020, which (supervisory control and data tomorrow.” or significantly slower internet speeds at unites SCPC (single carrier acquisition) and broadband least once a month. per channel) efficiency and access, sharing satellite Mx-DMA MRC is a return link 'Many of these outages will be in rural areas TDMA (time-division multiple capacity more efficiently over technology that combines the and those households are often forced to access) scalability in an a group of satellite terminals benefits of MF-TDMA - ideal for choose between just one or two providers. innovative way, adding and applications, achieving bursty traffic and higher This investment will lead to greater g r o u n d - b r e a k i n g n e w the lowest total cost of contention services with the connectivity, better choice for consumers, dimensions of adaptivity. ownership. spectrum efficiency of SCPC and more competition in the market.' The B u i l d i n g o n t h e w e l l - that is more applicable to changes didn't go as far as some hoped, established, award-winning “With the added dimensions dedicated higher data and however, with many hoping the Government Mx-DMA technology, Mx- and scalability of MRC, we are video rate return links, into a would extend business rates relief to aid fibre DMA MRC will answer the u n l o c k i n g t r e m e n d o u s single return technology suited rollout. m a r k e t ' s c a l l f o r flexibility and scale so our to a greatly expanded set of Caroline Normand, Director of Advocacy, unprecedented service agility, customers can deliver a applications. Mx-DMA scales added earlier in the week: 'Substandard 4G extending the availability of broader range of service in MHz independent of the and broadband continues to be a huge Mx-DMA to very large levels at a lower cost structure number of terminals so problem for many people around the country, networks and expanding the without compromise,” said customers may be served with shutting them out of important online applicability and use of the Thomas Van den Driessche, a single return link for the services and frustrating their daily lives, so it technology to cover a full President of the Executive majority of their use cases, is good to see the government keeping its spectrum of use cases. Board and Chief Commercial m i n i m i z i n g o p e r a t i o n a l promise on this much-needed investment. Officer, ST Engineering 'When it comes to 4G, the government and complexity and maximizing The introduction of Mx-DMA iDirect. “This will open up industry must urgently clarify plans and how statistic multiplexing. Mx-DMA MRC brings forth the full many doors for them, enabling the right level of geographic coverage will be MRC delivers these benefits by scalability of TDMA return link them to serve a greater maintaining the industry- delivered if it is to match what people actually number of markets more need.' More than 100 schools in rural areas technologies to the original leading spectral efficiency of efficiently and effectively. As are also set to receive full fibre broadband in M x - D M A H R C ( h i g h Mx-DMA HRC while drastically we move towards a converged the next twelve months under the Rural resolution coding) return at improving the agility, scalability offering, it is technology like Gigabit Connectivity programme. the same efficiency levels. and fill efficiency. INDUSTRY REPORT

Knowledge for space, space for knowledge Dr. Asthma Ibrahim

The Nigerian AIR Centre is an intergovernmental organization that brings together all countries bordering the Atlantic Ocean under a single research umbrella aiming to expand and complement existing activities at ESA, NASA and other major players worldwide, raising awareness for natural, physical and engineering sciences among children.

Space is today present in all aspect of human life. Space activities and with the Atlantic Ocean and Space technologies present a unique set of Technologies as the primary focal points.It synergies across most sectors and human is mainly concerned with a holistic activities, it is intrinsically intertwined with approach to the study of space, climate most scientific disciplines. It is the vantage change and energy, earth and ocean point from which the systems interactions sciences in the Atlantic. on earth are observed. One of its objectives is to make knowledge The Space industry has undergone a a common future for everyone. According profound revolution in the decades of the to the principal guiding concepts of the AIR 21st century. The Space industry has Centre, the world is increasingly becoming become a market oriented commercial digitized, so all societies have the potential entity – the so called New Space - with new to become knowledge based. Due to the players who are private investors, rapid digital transformation of the world entepreneurs and visionaries, competing mostly engineered by progress in the on scale, performances and cost, and Space Sector, a future is required where setting up agile supply chains to address a people can adapt to the rapidly changing growing demand for space services backed world through making informed decisions. up by new financing sources. In this kind of Thus scientific literacy becomes a atmosphere, the world is fast turning into a prequisite for everyone in order for knowledge based economy and is largely countries that are marginalized through a driven in part by space enrepreneurship. lack of knowledge based economies to Ms. Asthma Ibrahim Therefore a dichotomy is being created develop at a much faster rate and also be where countries whose economies are not able to mobilize the younger generation in part knowledge based are rapidly into science and technology enabled world. campaigns in scientific programs that becoming marginalized. explore the potentials of space The AIR Centre wants to be knowledge technologies and disseminate this The concept of the AIR Centre as an inclusive by admitting these sort of information to formal and informal intergovernmental organization is to bring marginalized countries in the multilateral settings such as schools, religious together all countries bordering the Atlantic collaborative fold in order to integrate all places, the home, etc. This will require Ocean under a single research umbrella sectors of society and economy into a the services of telecom operators, livelihood generation broadcasting services and space t h r o u g h s c i e n t i f i c providers. endeavour. Capacity building therefore forms one of the crosscutting Importance of space science missions of the AIR and technology Centre The AIR Centre is Although 5 billion people are aware of the promoting science and impact of mobile phones satellites and innovation through a telecommunications in their lives, they Knowledge for Space may not necessarily be aware of the programs in which a impact and importance of space activities study of the Ocean, in their day to day affairs. Space science earth, and climate are has a lot of relevance because space viewed in a holistic technologies help to provide new insights manner. on the universe and dynamics occurring The outcome of this is to on the surface of the earth which help in h a v e a w a r e n e s s the prediction and preparation of INDUSTRY REPORT

e m e r g i n g t h r e a t s , c a t a l y s e teachers introduce space education advancements in satellites and robotic into engineering. Space technologies also allow the exploration into outer space and at the same time open up new opportunities for new ventures that have positive economic environmental and social impacts. The so called New Space is having the greatest impact because of its ability to engage all sectors of an economy and therefore help to boost the national economy.

In recognition of the importance of space science and technology in improving the welfare of people, the UN Office for outer space Affairs UNOOSA was mandated to establish centres for Space Science and Technology Education in developing countries on a regional basis in an extensive capacity building drive. Nigeria and Morocco were chosen to host the centres and the African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in English (ARCSSTE-E) was inaugurated in 1998 at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. The centre is a research and training institution affiliated to the UNOOSA and is supervised by NASRDA.

Another educational outreach initiative is the European Space Education Resource Office (ESERO) Initiative. This is an initiative launched by ESA with several European countries to help IN THE NEWS

Speedcast launches ABS,TheAngle consolidate relationship global standardized to serve customers in the MENA region SD-WAN solution ABS, a leading satellite over the Middle East, for both companies that will Speedcast International Limited, the world's operator and TheAngle, a accessible also from Europe, f u r t h e r e n h a n c e o u r most trusted communications and IT services satellite network services as well as coverage of the respective businesses and provider, has launched an advanced software- integrator, has announced African and Asian continents accelerate the development defined wide area network (SD-WAN) solution they have extended their joint over multiple beams. of new opportunities with that seamlessly blends satellite, LTE, wireless activities in the MENA region, The satellite services attractive and flexible and fiber technologies. Designed for onshore serving customers across the demand in the MENA market offerings to more clients.” and offshore users, the solution provides ABS' footprints at 75 degrees remains strong, driven by Hassam Karim, General customers with high performance and dynamic East. traditional verticals such as Manager of TheAngle added, access to applications across networks, with ABS is one of the fastest oil and gas, maritime/mobility “Our service offerings enable greater ease of use and lower cost than growing global satellite a n d g o v e r n m e n t a l . customers to take advantage traditional network management systems. operators in the world. ABS B r o a d b a n d , v i d e o of the expertise of both offers a complete range of contribution and video companies to provide an As networks and satellite connections grow, tailored solutions including distribution are also key even higher quality of turnkey network management becomes crucial to broadcasting, data and applications hosted on the services to suits their needs ensure seamless business operations. telecommunication services ABS satellites. of this region.” C u s t o m e r s r e q u i r e m i s s i o n - c r i t i c a l to broadcasters, service ABS operates a fleet of communications combining different WAN link providers, enterprises and Paolo Pusterla, MD of satellites: ABS-2, ABS-2A, technologies to maximize their available government organizations. Europe and the Middle East ABS-3, ABS-3A, ABS- bandwidth and application uptime while for ABS said, “TheAngle has 4/Mobisat-1, ABS-6, and streamlining costs. Speedcast has simplified The collaboration focusses on extensive knowledge of the ABS-7. The satellite fleet link management by introducing a best-in- providing energy, enterprise regional market and its covers over 93% of the class SD-WAN solution. With all disparate and government customers multiple services and world's population across the WAN links configured inside a secure conduit, with bespoke, cost-effective applications. Our continued Americas, Africa, Asia Pacific, Speedcast SD-WAN simplifies routing through communication solutions cooperation with TheAngle Europe, the Middle East, CIS a single, end-to-end solution that dynamically including ground segment will reinforce our presence in and Russia. Headquartered routes traffic across the best available links and f a c i l i t i e s a n d f l e x i b l e this market and bring more in Bermuda, ABS has offices aggregates the bandwidth to maximize bandwidth allocations on viable bandwidth and in the United States, UAE, throughput. It offers the highest uptime ABS-2 and ABS-2A satellites, introduce new services to South Africa and Asia. ABS is availability and allows users to maintain a high co-located at the prime more customers across the majority owned by funds quality of experience even at over 90% link location of 75°E. Both G C C c o u n t r i e s . T h i s managed by the European bandwidth utilization. satellites offer prime capacity collaboration is a major boost Private Equity firm Permira.

"Having a modern, reliable network is critical for our offshore and onshore customers' ESA, European Commission pre-order operations and digital transformation strategies," said Tim Bailey, Executive Vice four more Ariane 6 launches President, Products, Marketing and Business Development, Speedcast. "Speedcast SD- The European Space Agency a f t e r t h e E u r o p e a n Director, declared: “The WAN is the ideal solution for increasing the (ESA) has finalized its Commission finalizes its prospect of Ariane 6 launching availability, stability and bandwidth of our preorder for four more budget for the period 2021- Galileo is a shining example of customers' remote site connectivity while launches on Ariane 6, along 2027, which covers these ESA and the EU's shared vision delivering a better end-user experience and with an initial payment. Using launches. The terms and and goals for the future. With improved operational efficiencies. The launch Ariane 62, the light version of conditions of this order have G a l i l e o , s p a c e i s f u l l y significantly strengthens Speedcast's the new European launcher, already been approved by integrated into the European capability to deploy and manage innovative these missions will be carried ESA and the European economy and society, and solutions that address our customers' needs.” out on behalf of the European Commission, and an initial makes our space sector Commercial Maritime is a core part of our Commission to continue the payment has been made for globally competitive, and with Maritime business. Speedcast uses deployment and operational this preorder Ariane 6, we guarantee the combinations of VSAT and landbased r a m p - u p o f t h e h i g h - . E u r o p e a n a u t o n o m y i n 4G/LTE signals to deliver communications performance Galileo satellite Commissioner Thierry accessing and using space.” across oceans and along the most rugged navigation system Breton, responsible for coastlines in the world. One of our key priorities Internal Market, said: “There “We are delighted to contribute this year has been to help customers manage Arianespace has announced is no credible space policy to the operational ramp-up of their connectivity and optimise their network at a preorder from the European without independent access Europe's Galileo navigation critical moments and locations. Our Maritime Space Agency (ESA), on to space. Europe has always system,” said StéphaneIsraël, division has been enhancing business behalf of the European demonstrated its excellence Chief Executive Officer of operations by decreasing boatyard time with Commission (DG Grow), for in the launcher area and both Arianespace. “Galileo will better monitoring and reporting through IoT four launches using the Ariane 6 and Vega C will benefit from the excellence of (Internet of Things). We've also increased our Ariane 6 rocket. Planned to secure Europe's access to another symbol of European focus on value-added solutions crafted for the start in January 2022, these s p a c e i n t h e f u t u r e . independence, namely the cloud Maritime ecosystem and to enhance the launches will orbit eight Development of launchers in Ariane 6 launch vehicle. We are onboard experience for crew members. satellites from Batch 3 to Europe is essential. The very pleased that ESA and the Speedcast's service offering gives our support the final deployment European Commission is European Commission have customers access to an unmatched network of of the Galileo constellation proud to be the first selected our future champion networks: global satellite coverage leveraging and the replacement of institutional client of Ariane 6. which continues to prove its d i f f e r e n t o r b i t s a n d f r e q u e n c i e s , certain satellites It is important to anticipate competitiveness in today's complemented with fibre, microwave, and LTE the future needs of our market, with a growing backlog networks. Around the world, we provide 24/7 These four launches reserved Galileo programme. of orders from both commercial coverage for more than 2,000 customers in for Ariane 62 will be confirmed Jan Wörner, ESA General and institutional customers.” more than 100 countries via 40 teleports

7 IN THE NEWS

UAE migrates to e- SANSA, NASA sign Deep Space study learning as 22,000 agreement teachers qualified to The South African National tutor online Space Agency (SANSA) and The National Aeronautics As the number of coronavirus cases in the UAE and Space Administration hit 98, the government has been putting more (NASA) recently signed an effort into blocking its spread. The Gulf nation agreement to partner in a temporarily shut down schools and educational study activity that will be institutions earlier this month to limit the possible implemented shortly. transmission of COVID-19. The closure of The study agreement will see schools is to remain intact for four weeks as per N A S A a n d S A N S A the initial announcement. More recently, the collaborate in conducting ministry called for the closure of gyms, cinemas, technical and environmental and theme parks. But the closure of the latter research on the potential to areas doesn't necessarily have a drastic effect establish a ground station in on society as education does. South Africa that will support future near-Earth and deep Educators, parents, and students have been space exploration, including concerned over how quickly they could adapt to NASA's planned Artemis p r o v i d e e d u c a t i o n a l N A S A o n t h i s s t u d y what's happening while ensuring no harm to the mission to send the first opportunities for universities agreement.” learning outcomes of the semester. The UAE has woman and the next man to a n d t h e i r s t u d e n t s , been quick to adapt to the crisis by turning to e- the surface of the Moon, as e s p e c i a l l y f o r t h o s e T h e S o u t h A f r i c a n learning platforms and solutions in an effort to directed by the President of i n t e r e s t e d i n s p a c e government is equally excited minimize the effects of the global pandemic on the United States. c o m m u n i c a t i o n s a n d about this agreement, as it will students. navigation. Depending on provide many opportunities More recently, the UAE's Ministry of Education Addressing the audience, the outcomes of the study for those in the space industry, and Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University Marcus Watkins, Director of agreement, long term be it people focused on (HBMSU) has trained more than 42,000 the NASA Management p r o j e c t s c o u l d b e academia or providing teachers and academic staff to be well-versed in Office, said, “Having worked implemented soon between technical and engineering online tutoring. The training itself titled "How to with the South African S A N S A a n d N A S A , ” skills, it has potential to be an online tutor in 24 hours" was conducted government on numerous concluded Watkins. contribute to the improvement using a free e-training course as well and aims at projects in the past, it is fitting of our science, technology, teaching users how to use technology to manage to collaborate with SANSA on A c c o r d i n g t o D r . e n g i n e e r i n g , a n d classrooms virtually. this study agreement, not ValanathanMunsami the m a t h e m a t i c s ( S T E M ) o n l y b e c a u s e o f t h e Chief Executive Officer of industries. Similarly to how More than 22,000 certificates have been issued geographical positioning of the SANSA, “Continuous South Africa supported to educators since, according to Arabian South Africa but more so the research and development NASA's earliest space Business. technical capabilities and the are vital in any industry for it probes, leading up to the first The UAE's Minister of Education, Hussain bin consistent quality of work to thrive and at the rate and moon landing, we are hopeful Ibrahim Al Hammadi, said officials have been produced by SANSA Space pace the space industry is that our country will be part of putting much work into making e-learning Operations over the years.” developing, it's appropriate future explorations and accessible, beneficial, and productive for both “This agreement will also for SANSA to partner with discoveries,” said Munsami. students and educators alike. "Today, we are better prepared for the future, by creating a comprehensive and integrated Satcom backhaul in remote areas for major electronic learning and training environment, which will realize the country's efforts to shift African operator towards smart education and employ technological resources and educational There has been an areas and will replace the population served (it is competencies to serve the academic announcement in recent c u r r e n t l y i n s t a l l e d not precise about the area) community," the minister said. days of a major backhaul t e c h n o l o g y , s a y s to receive adequate The UAE is one of the only regional nations that delivery in Africa by Spacebridge. service for years to come, has been building a digital infrastructure that can SpaceBridge, though the at better transmission support e-classrooms for a while now. The customer name has not The delivered satellite quality, providing faster coronavirus only made them move quicker in that yet been revealed. backhauling solution is I n t e r n e t a c c e s s f o r direction and forced them to apply it on a nation- T h e m u l t i s e r v i c e e q u i p p e d w i t h sending pictures, videos, level, which isn't necessarily a bad thing as they b r o a d b a n d s a t e l l i t e SpaceBridge'sWaveSwitc texts and superior voice will learn what worked and what didn't during this communications systems h patented technology, communications. period. solutions provider has offering VSAT stations that An example of the efforts is "Madrasa," an Arabic been a little coy about the c a n q u i c k l y s w i t c h While the areas served e-learning platform launched under the umbrella of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum customer name, simply between SCPC, A-SCPC and the customer may not Global Initiatives (MBRGI) nearly two years ago. saying that it has delivered or MF-TDMA waveforms. be precisely identifiable The platform offers more than 5,000 educational l a r g e - s c a l e c e l l u l a r The integration between (though no doubt some videos in math, science, and the Arabic language backhaul over a satellite the SpaceBridge satellite readers will have a good to students from kindergarten to Grade 12. platform to the largest p l a t f o r m , e N o d e B g u e s s ) , t h i s d e a l MNO in Africa. terrestrial equipment and underlines the continuing The platform supports the Distance Learning the MNO allows the role of satellite in a initiative, which the Ministry of Education The solution, for 2G/4G satellite band to adjust to continent where cellular launched this month, by providing interactive mobile cellular backhaul cellular traffic growth. coverage of remote areas online classroom sessions — a feature many e- over satellite, is for Such flexibility, says remains a significant learning platforms lack. servicing unserved remote SpaceBridge, will enable challenge.

8 IN THE NEWS Egypt advances space program with 10-year Airbus visits NIGCOMSAT, showcases services

plan A i r b u s , a E u r o p e a n unsurpassed quality of satellites building, sale and multinational aerospace service. By combining services', said Dr. Beruhard Egypt is advancing its goals in space, following corporation has paid a courtesy expertise, it provides, The Marketing chief said approval last week of a 10-year development v i s i t t o N i g e r i a n deploys and implements they are in Nigeria and plan for the Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) Communications Satellite turnkey solutions ranging N I G C O M S A T L t d i n established in August. (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd with the from Internet infrastructure, particular to showcase what The agency launched its first communications view to showcasing its Voice over Internet protocol they can offer and register satellite last year, as part of a plan to ensure capability and willingness to ( V o I P ) , s a t e l l i t e their presence in a more mobile and Internet services for all of Egypt as offer further engagement and communications, Direct-to- competitive engagements of well as parts of neighboring countries. It was related services in the home (DTH) services and international standard for one of four satellites launched successfully last communications satellite wireless communications. s e a m l e s s s e r v i c e s . year, according to Space in Africa. The agency industry. NigComSat-1R satellite has two satellite control centers, one in Cairo beam covers Nigeria, a huge Dr. Beruhard who came in and another in Aswan, and is host to the African .Nigerian Communications part of Africa, some parts of company of Air Vice Marshal Space Agency established by the African Satellite Ltd. (NIGCOMSAT, Asia & Europe Victor Udoh (Rtd) President, Union. was incorporated on April 4, Airbus Nigeria and Rafa Egypt is one of the most advanced countries in 2006 as a company under the LeadingMeasat-3b a team of experts to Gomax, was delighted to be the in Africa and Middle East in terms of space auspices of the Federal NIGCOMSAT complex in in NIGCOMSAT Ltd to show technologies capabilities. Its Earth Observation Ministry of Communication. Abuja, the Executive Vice Africa and Nigeria what his Satellites, includes the EgyptSat-1 launched on With a mission is “to manage President Marketing and c o m p a n y c a n o f f e r . April 2007 and EgyptSat-2 launched on April and exploit the commercial Sales, Dr. Brenner Beruhard 2014 along with a ground control station in New viability of the Nigerian explained that Airbus has Responding, the Managing Cairo, 40 Km north east Cairo city, also called Communication Satellite, already established a Director Abimbola Alale the Space city. NigComSat for the social presence in Nigeria with its ( P h . D . ) w h o w a s Dr Mohamed ElKoosy, the EgSA CEO, says economic benefit of the nation”. local agency known as represented by Executive Egypt plans another two satellites in the next It is charged with the Airbus Nigeria Director, Technical, Prof. three years, and plans to build a NGEO management and operation of . Abdu Ja'afaruBambale, constellation similar to the Starlink project in the t h e f i r s t g e o s t a t i o n a r y 'We have ambition to welcomed the team and coming years. SpaceX signed a deal in January communications satellite in develop our presence in commended Airbus of with Egyptian operator NileSat to launch a four- sub-Sahara Africa. Nigeria. We offer services on maintaining strong presence ton satellite in 2022 to support communications. space telecoms, earth in the communications ElKoosy says Egypt's program is geared NIGCOMSAT aims to provide observation, cyber solution, industry toward security, but also focuses on weather i t s c u s t o m e r s w i t h d e f e n c e i n t e l l i g e n c e , u and climate change mitigation. Later this year, the Egyptian Space Agency plans training sessions for 20 participants from African nations who are part of a project to use space SpaceX to launch next 60 Starlink internet technology to better control greenhouse gas emissions. satellites Egypt partners with nations including China and France to develop its space program, signing a SpaceX will launch 60 new Virginia; and Washington, four, two were not recovered new cooperation deal in January with France's Starlink satellites to join its DC. and will not fly again. One Center National d'EtudesSpatiale (CNES). ever-growing broadband The booster, dubbed was intentionally destroyed Jean-Yves Le Gal, head of CNES, said the internet megaconstellation. A B 1 0 4 8 . 5 , p r e v i o u s l y during the company's in- partnership will include satellite manufacture SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launched a bevy of satellites flight abort test and the and space exploration. launch the Starlink mission including part of the Iridium booster used in the latest Egypsat provides high-speed Internet from Pad 39A at NASA's NEXT constellations, an Starlink mission before this connection, using the Express AM22 satellite, Kennedy Space Center in Israeli lunar lander a one, it was lost after narrowly which offers a hot spot beam pointed just over Florida. This is SpaceX's sixth communications satellites missing the drone ship. the Middle East, from the Indian Ocean to the launch of the year and the sixth for Argentina and Indonesia, Atlantic Ocean coast. This extensive coverage Starlink launch to date. The and a previous Starlink The SpaceX Falcon 1 was for all countries in the Middle East, Europe and mission will star a veteran mission. the first privately developed Africa provides customers with an excellent Falcon 9 rocket that will do what liquid fueled rocket to reach range of geographic locations. Due to the no other Falcon has done This is a major milestone for Earth orbit. In 2008, SpaceX strong signal obtained from the satellite, a fairly before: launch and land five SpaceX. The upgraded won a NASA contract to use small antenna is used to get a reliable and fast times. version of their workhorse its Falcon 9 rocket and Internet connection. SpaceX is a private company was introduced in 2018, D r a g o n s p a c e c r a f t t o In November 2019, Egypt's TIBA-1 owned by management and l a u n c h i n g t h e f i r s t commercially provide the communications satellite was successfully employees, with minority communications satellite for cargo transport function of blasted off into space on-board Ariane 5 rocket investments from Founders Bangladesh. Company the space shuttle, which was alongside Inmarsat GX5 on Arianespace's Fund, Draper Fisher Jurvetson, founder and CEO, Elon retired in 2011. VA250 flight. The satellite was launched from and Valor Equity Partners. The Musk said that the souped \In 2010, SpaceX became the Guiana Space Center (CSG), Europe's company has more than 3,000 up booster would be able to t h e f i r s t c o m m e r c i a l Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. e m p l o y e e s w i t h i t s fly ten times with little company to successfully Fitted in the upper passenger position in Ariane headquarters in Hawthorne, refurbishment in between. recover a spacecraft from 5's dual-payload configuration, TIBA-1 was California; launch facilities at Sunday's flight marks the Earth orbit with its Dragon successfully separated after 27 minutes to Cape Canaveral Air Force first time a Falcon has spacecraft. And in 2012, Geostationary transfer orbit where it l S t a t i o n , F l o r i d a , a n d reached the halfway point. SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft transitioned to its operational orbital slot Vandenberg Air Force Base, To date, four Falcons have became the first commercial position at 35.5° East. Designed to remain in C a l i f o r n i a ; a r o c k e t four successful flights under vehicle to successfully attach service in orbit for more than 15 years, the d e v e l o p m e n t f a c i l i t y i n their belts, but this booster to the International Space satellite had a launch mass of 5,600 kg on lift-off McGregor, Texas; and offices in will be the first to launch five Station and return cargo to and an electric power capability of higher than 9 Houston, Texas; Chantilly, times. However, of those Earth. kW.

11 IN THE NEWS

Intelsat selects Exolaunch to deliver UAE Space Agency's small SpaceX to launch satellite into orbit on Soyuz-2 Berlin-based Exolaunch, the range to derive atmospheric commercial activities for the Intelsat 40e satellite leading launch services and g r e e n h o u s e g a s R u s s i a n S t a t e S p a c e deployment system provider concentrations. Corporation Roscosmos. Intelsat has selected SpaceX as its launch f o r s m a l l s a t e l l i t e s . The secondary payload on Glavkosmos has been a partner for Intelsat 40e (IS-40e). The launch is announced that the launch of MeznSat will consist of a VGA reliable partner for Exolaunch, planned for 2022 on SpaceX's American-built a 3U cubesat, MeznSat, for camera for post-processing and it is pleased that the Falcon 9 launch vehicle. the UAE Space Agency will be t h a t b r i n g s i n c r e a s e d partners from the UAE have “We look forward to working with SpaceX to performed aboard a Soyuz-2 precision and accuracy to the chosen a Soyuz launch launch Intelsat 40e in 2022,” said Intelsat rocket. The purpose of the SWIR spectrometer data. vehicle for delivering MeznSat Chief Services Officer Mike DeMarco. “IS-40e satellite is to study and The combination of visible into orbit.’ will join the Intelsat Epic high-throughput monitor the greenhouse and SWIR bands will make satellite fleet and integrated IntelsatOne gases, specifically CO2 and MeznSat a unique CubeSat “We are proud to apply our ground network to provide our customers with Methane, over the UAE. m i s s i o n , s p e c i f i c a l l y best-in-class launch services the managed hybrid-connectivity they need in designed to generate a rich expertise and utilize our today's ever-changing world.” MeznSat is a nanosatellite for d a t a s e t f o r e x p l o r i n g m a r k e t - l e a d i n g “We are honored Intelsat, one of the world's c l i m a t e o b s e r v a t i o n , atmospheric correction EXOpoddeployer for this premier satellite operators, has selected a manufactured by Khalifa algorithms. Soyuz-2 mission,” Jeanne flight-proven Falcon 9 to deliver its next University of Science and Medvedeva, Commercial geostationary communications satellite to Technology (KUST) in MeznSat is scheduled for Director at Exolaunch, said. orbit,” said SpaceX Vice President of partnership with the American launch in mid-2020. It is “The UAE Space Agency is Commercial Sales Tom Ochinero. University of Ras Al-Khaimah accommodated on one of the nurturing some of the world's Recently, the company's launched Intelsat 39 (AURAK) and funded by the upcoming Soyuz-2 federal brightest young minds who entered into service providing connectivity UAE Space Agency. The launches as part of the small apply space-based solutions services for mobile network operators, satellite's primary payload will satellite cluster launch to tackle global issues. It is enterprises and governmental entities, as well be a shortwave infrared contract between Exolaunch extremely rewarding for us to as aeronautical and maritime mobility service (SWIR) spectrometer that a n d G l a v k o s m o s , t h e support their vision.” providers operating in the Europe, Africa, makes observations in the operator of international Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions. 1000-1650 nm wavelength Intelsat 40e is an advanced geostationary satellite that will provide Intelsat's government and enterprise customers across North and Central America with high-throughput, “coast- Unlocking new markets with smallcells to-coast” services. The satellite's capabilities With recent declines in ultra-rural locations. The initial extending coverage into will support the growing number of customers satellite capacity pricing, investment involved in ultra-rural locations as that depend on Intelsat's managed services Satellite Backhaul became a deploying those sites is competition and market and solutions to easily integrate satellite into real alternative for MNO rural typically in the 100k-150k saturation begin to challenge their overall networking and communications deployments. However, USD range (cell, tower, ROI and other financial strategies. CAPEX involved in the cell energy, backhaul equipment, metrics in these traditional Intelsat provides critical communications tower, primarily designed for etc.). However, a new battleground markets. To infrastructure to customers in the network urban areas with a dense generation of base stations, minimize risk, MNOs are services, media and government sectors. Our distribution of subscribers, optimized for serving smaller willing to outsource a big customers use our services for broadband limited the market opportunity populations, has decreased portion of their operations in connectivity to deliver fixed and mobile to relatively large population the initial investment to the these non-traditional ultra- telecommunications, enterprise, video agglomerations. With the 10k-30k USD range. r u r a l l o c a t i o n s . distribution and fixed and mobile government emergence of Smallcells, it is Consequently, new business applications. now possible to close the Assuming values for ARPU of models are emerging, business case even when 3 USD/sub/month, a satellite ranging from managed Intelsat operates the world's first Globalized there is a small number of c a p a c i t y c o s t o f 3 0 0 services, infrastructure Network, delivering high-quality, cost- subscribers to be captured. USD/Mbps/month and a leases or even end-to-end effective video and broadband services This means the addressable bandwidth allocation of 4 offers with revenue sharing anywhere in the world. Intelsat's Globalized m a r k e t f o r s a t c o m i s Kbps/sub (average values for schemes between the Network combines the world's largest satellite expanding significantly in a 3G subscriber in an integrator and the MNO. backbone with terrestrial infrastructure, covering small remote emerging market), one could managed services and an open, interoperable villages. infer the minimum number of With much lower CAPEX architecture to enable customers to drive Smallcells are still a thin subscribers needed to close involved, Smallcells can revenue and reach through a new generation contributor to the Satellite the business case for a close the business case of network services. Thousands of Backhaul market, attracting M a c r o c e l l v s S m a l l c e l l attracting as low as 300 organizations serving billions of people very specific deployments in deployment. Smallcells can subscribers compared with worldwide rely on Intelsat to provide Asia. However, this will rapidly generate positive returns 1,000+ for Macrocells, ubiquitous broadband connectivity, change as a rich ecosystem is attracting as low as 300 making this relatively new multiformat video broadcasting, secure taking shape as some regions subscribers, which make offering an optimal solution satellite communications and seamless (particularly Africa and Latin them an optimal solution for for ultra-rural deployments. mobility services. The end result is an entirely America) have recently seen ultra-rural deployments. The significant expansion of new world, one that allows us to envision the high levels of interest. the addressable market for impossible, connect without boundaries and Satellite Backhaul and transform the ways in which we live. A Flourishing MNOs will inevitably lead to It's Been 50 Years After Intelsat first-ever live Unlocking New Ecosystem higher competition but also international video broadcast, the TV special Markets with The core business from to a significant narrowing of “Our World.” Today, the company operates a Smallcells MNOs is obviously in urban the digital gap that has global fleet of over 50 in service satellites, CAPEX for mainstream areas where operations are pervaded for decades eight teleports and the IntelsatOneSM Macrocell Base stations was a streamlined. However, MNOs between urban and rural terrestrial architecture. major barrier for connecting also see the value in dwellers.

12 IN THE NEWS

ITU launches global SES announces full year 2019 results platform to help SES S.A. has announced 2020 and beyond. Our updated FY 2020 outlook protect financial results for the year With O3b mPOWER a little incorporates a more prudent telecommunication ended 31 December 2019 over one year away from first view of revenue development with results in line with SES' launch, we have made great in Video and a somewhat networks during the financial outlook, including a progress in building our lower trajectory of growth second successive year of seamless, cloud-enabled, exiting 2019 in our Networks COVID-19 crisis revenue growth in SES automated, multi-orbit global segments. Networks. network partnering with The proposed dividend of Never before have telecommunication S t e v e C o l l a r , C E O , Microsoft, Amdocs and EUR 0.40 underscores our networks been so vital to our health and c o m m e n t e d : “ W e a r e Kythera. Pleasingly, we continued commitment to safety, and to keep our economy and society satisfied with our 2019 signed our first three O3b maintaining SES' Investment working, as during the COVID-19 crisis we are financial results with EBITDA, mPOWER customers with Grade credit rating, providing living through today. net debt to EBITDA and Carnival Corporation's Global an attractive return to CapEx metrics all in line with Experience and Innovation s h a r e h o l d e r s w h i l e At stake is our ability, as one human family, to the outlook provided last team extending multi-orbit supporting the short-term give health workers everywhere the tools they February. Revenue was operations to all Princess investment peak in our fast- need to carry out their duties, to allow all those s l i g h t l y b e l o w o u r Cruise Line vessels, as well growing, highly differentiated that can to work from home, to trade online, to expectations as we missed as agreements with Orange in Networks business. We ensure that hundreds of millions of children one important contract on the Africa and a second telco to b e l i e v e t h a t w e h a v e and young people keep up with their studies, Video side but continued leverage the unique backhaul established a unique and non- and to keep in touch with loved ones, strong focus on discretionary c a p a b i l i t i e s o f O 3 b replicable value proposition wherever they are. spending ensured that we mPOWER. within our Networks business The platform ITU is launching today aims to met our important EBITDA with verticals such as assist national policy-makers, regulators and targets. O u r V i d e o b u s i n e s s Aeronautical, Cruise and industry stakeholders to ensure that networks continues to respond to the Government offering strong are kept resilient and telecommunication With growth of 4.5%, and ongoing evolution in media growth opportunities that services are available to all to the maximum more than 20% in the last two consumption with DTH and demand focus and scale. extent possible by sharing best practices and y e a r s , S E S N e t w o r k s cable customers 'right-sizing' A c c o r d i n g l y , w e a r e initiatives put in place during the COVID-19 continues to expand on the capacity leading to a decline undertaking a programme of crisis. It will collect relevant and trustworthy back of strong growth in the of 7.8% in underlying transformation that includes information and expertise on actions that Aeronautical, Cruise and revenue. Despite this, our the consideration to separate telecommunication policy-makers, regulators Government segments while, technical reach grew to over our Networks business within and others in the regulatory community can in Fixed Data, we signed and 365 million households in SES and potentially provide it use to ensure that their telecommunication deployed several important 2019 and we now carry 3,000 with access to external networks and services serve the needs of their connectivity networks that will HD and UHD TV channels to capital. country. contribute to future growth in audiences around the world.

This new ITU platform will provide countries struggling to find appropriate solutions to Outdoor Sport Channel® chooses Globecast ensure their networks' resiliency with relevant and trustworthy information and expertise on for worldwide distribution of content how to cope with the stresses faced by their infrastructure. And because time is of the essence, it will give those countries that still Globecast has announced a direct and dedicated fiber network featuring a vast have time to prepare an opportunity to learn multi-year partnership with feeds from its broadcast array of outdoor, action, from what is being done elsewhere – from United Kingdom/Netherlands- center in Culver City, CA. summer, winter sports and emergency spectrum reassignments to based Outdoor Sport Channel This latest deal further adds sports news. It distributes its guidelines for consumers on responsible use. for the worldwide distribution to Globecast's growing HD programming worldwide Serving initially as an informative tool, the of its HD and 4K content to C o n t e n t A c q u i s i t i o n , via CATV, DTH satellite, Global Network Resiliency Platform will soon MVPDs (multichannel video Aggregation, & Distribution IPTV, OTT, broadcast over be expanded to provide an interactive and programming distributors) and (CAAD) business. I P, V O D , a n d m o b i l e engaging platform for continuous sharing as the exclusive distributor in Henk van Meer, Founder & platforms. throughout this crisis and beyond. The crisis the US. The deal includes the CEO of Outdoor Sport “This distribution agreement we are in today calls for solidarity. distribution of the linear Channel® commented, “In demonstrates our value in channel and video-on- order to further maximize our delivering content to all types In these uncertain times, we should not forget demand content on all worldwide distribution, we of operator platforms and our all those around the world who still lack access platforms including CATV, teamed up with Globecast as ability to partner with quality to the Internet. As the United Nations DTH, IPTV, OTT and smart they are the ideal partner to programmers to extend their specialized agency for information and TVs for North America, South help us 'go global' because reach to distributors globally. communication technologies, ITU has long America, Europe, the Russian that is what they do best. We're eager to be working advocated for universal, reliable and Federation, Asia-Pacific, and Globecast understands w i t h O u t d o o r S p o r t affordable connectivity, and we will continue to exclusively in the US. today's operator and TV Channel® to bring its exciting push on all these fronts until everyone is audience needs and we are and unique international connected. Globecast is a leading keen to market, offer, and sell sports content to the world. It provider of both content our channel to each and any continues to affirm our I call on all ITU members, from the public and aggregation and end-to-end distributing operator on the successful approach to our private sector alike, to come together to build media delivery for network planet with a long-term CAAD business line,” said the best platform we can so that information programming from around the vision.” Berto Guzman, VP, Head of and communication technology can help globe. Globecast is a Outdoor Sport Channel® HD C o n t e n t A c q u i s i t i o n , defeat COVID-19 and make us safer, stronger preferred content provider to is an international, 24-hour Aggregation and Distribution and more connected. most US major MVPDs with global sports television for Globecast Americas

18 SPECIAL REPORT

Space Vacation: Industry faces revenue loss as COVID-19 forces shutdown

Though space vacations may remain out- of-reach for most of us in the foreseeable future, many space enthusiasts that look forward to take the usual adventure into space, zipping around the solar system this year may have to forget the thought. With COVID-19 pandemic, space travel might seem stalled at the moment, but may resume soon after the global viral infection ceases costing the industry billion of dollars. The Futron Corporation performed its study in the USA with the purpose of projecting a 20 year prognosis of sub orbital space tourism,. It interviewed 450 millionaires by phone in order to have a realistic sample from which it could draw its conclusions. The study revealed that there was substantial demand for sub orbital space tourism and that it would continue to grow. 19% of respondents Picture source ADB were interested in purchasing a flight to the sub orbit, while 18% were interested in Picture source: ITU orbital space flight at prices levels of $20 million to $25 million.. The most interested candidates for sub orbital flight had an average age of 50, while for the orbital flightCourtesy- the average SpaceX age was a bit higher at 55. According to the study if sub orbital tourism is offered in 2008, there would be Air Vice Marshall Tommy Udoh 600 customers to begin with, while at market maturation in 2021, there would have been 13,000 customers, with revenues amounting to more than $600 million. According to Virgin Galactic, market maturation is expected to occur around 2027.

Lat year, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) campaigns have been spurred into action challenging tasks. Sir Richard Branson became the 40th country in history to see one from various interviews with the founders of seemed to like the idea of a reality TV show of its citizens fly into space with the launch of space companies, such as Sir Richard and has sealed the deal on his own a crew bound for the International Space Branson, to promotional exhibitions such as marketing plan to expand and draw Station. Hazzaa AlMansoori, a spaceflight those of SXC in China and UAE. Marketing awareness to virgin Galactic. The producer participant flying under a contract between campaigns are not yet in full swing as they do Mark Burnett, know for the reality TV show Russia's space agency and the UAE's not need to be. High net individuals are the Survivor, will lead the TV show “Space Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre first ones needed to be drawn to space Race”. The wining prize will be a flight on the (MBRSC), lifted off with cosmonaut Oleg tourism, while the rest of the public will follow SS2. Reality TV shows have been very Skripochka of Roscosmos and astronaut later when prices are appropriate for their popular with mass audience and will bring Jessica Meir of NASA. The three launched on income. The primary task to date has been to space tourism more general awareness, a board Russia's Soyuz MS-15 spacecraft atop convince the millionaires of the world that per4fectt promotional technique to market a Soyuz FG rocket from the Baikonur such a trip is safe, extraordinary and most the future sub orbital trips. Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. importantly exclusive. The added value of luxury is also a dominant factor in convincing It goes without the saying that at the The flight marked the final scheduled use of the ultra rich to experience sub orbital beginning, space tourism will be only for high Gagarin's Start, the launch pad where tourism. net worth individuals, for those who have cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin lifted off on April 12, millions of dollars in their bank accounts and 1961 to become the first human to fly into Sony Pictures Television has signed an simply put rich. According to the Forbes list of space. Roscosmos officials have said that the agreement with the SXC to create a reality TV millionaires, the year 2013 was a record historic pad, also known as Site 1, will be show of space boot-camp called MIPCOM- breaking one. There was a 9.2 % increase in upgraded to support a more modern version Milky WAY Mission. Dutch celebrities will millionaires, defined by the world wealth of the Soyuz rocket.. Nine minutes after complete for a prize to be sent to sub orbit, report as those who have $1 million or more leaving Gagarin's Start, “It is a unique most likely on the Lynx 1 OR2 that is amounting to 12 million people worldwide. responsibility and a unique opportunity to produced by the SXC. The TV show has Quite a few government sponsored bring aboard the station the first astronaut already been sold to Nederland 1 and will be astronauts have been sent to space, yet only from the United Arab Emirates Marketing showing contestants training and performing seven self paying civilian individuals have

19 SPECIAL REPORT

which is presently termed the overview effect. it describes the experience that astronauts has when looking at earth from the vastness of space. There are no more artificial boundaries created by man, distinguishing one country from another, yet there is a perception of the universal unity of our planet and interrelation that exists between humans and the ecosystem.

The appreciation of nature, biological systems and the interrelation of humans provokes a holistic approach to viewing human civilization, which is bound to grow out of its infancy of conflict, war and poverty. It seems that the overview effect raises an understanding of human civilization in addition to appreciating the beauty of and feeling humility toward the planet.

Preparations There is much to be done before a flight launches into sub orbital or orbit. Depending on the space operator and type of the vehicle used, the procedure should be more or less the same as the preparation for the space fligh. Upon contacting a tourist agency or an operator directly and making booking, the customer will have to go through medical visited space, all of whom have done so in that humans would venture into outer examination and a training procedure. The this century alone. While private companies space, where they might either orbit the training one receives, would last from 3 days are offering space travel services, yet as of earth or board the international space to 2 weeks for sub orbital trips, while for orbital nowCourtesy- none of themSpaceX have realized their goal of station. in addition, some envision space trip at present the training is anywhere from actually sending someone to space. hotels, Moon visitations and mining one year to two years. In the future, orbital Although one company currently acts as an asteroids. Although at first such flights will require such training to be less time agent for orbital travel, it nevertheless statements might seem farfetched, one consuming as to appeal to a wider variety of depend on the services of the Russian must point out that a space hotel is customers. Federal Space Agency of Roscosmos and already in earth's orbit and that diligent its Soyuz rockets. progress through flight tests has almost While Dennis Tito is often credited as the first made the commercial aspect of regular civilian in space, he was not the first per se. However, it seems that new companies are space travel a reality. It s only the Toyohiro Akiyama did not fund his own trip, but challenging the status quo and breaking the question of time and readiness of the he was the first civilian space participant, as paradigm as they will likely achieve space companies to make their long-awaited he was selected in a deal between Tokyo tourism within the near future, with two of debut and open industry of present day Broadcasting Services and the Soviet Union them planning to launch their operation fully economics. While there has been to be included on a space flight on the Soyuz in 2020. Such companies not only have a c o n c e r n s a b o u t g o v e r n m e n t s , rocket to the Mir Space station. However as vision for humanity to be a space venturing companies and individuals offering the he did not pay for his known trip, he was not civilization, but are also keen to satisfy adventure so that a wealthy few can regarded as the true space tourist. In 2001, tehno-economic need for cargo delivery flaunt their egos during an economic Dennis Tito, who was the fist self funding into space. It is claimed that the privatization crisis. astronaut, paid a staggering $20 million for an of such services and development of space eight day journey. tourism may lessen the burden of costs Today, the major dilemma of space faced by national government and provide tourism is the start up costs; it is He claims it was an experience of a lifetime, as other nation state access to space. expensive to travel to space and he himself said after the flight “My flight into technologically demanding. However, space is not a walk, it is a fulfillment of a In the last two years, Virgin Galactic has many see these costs will decrease over lifetime dream”.After Dennis Tito's flight, six been making news' headlines with its time to the point where the general public more individuals followed his footsteps, one of promise to provide space travel services might be able to afford them and in turn them even went twice. These six individuals and announcements that it shall soon offer, this would give way to providing cheaper made a journey into space in the same at quite a hefty price, trips to sub orbit. It is services for the general space industry, in manner, firstly contacting the only travel generally agreed that sub orbit exists 100 terms of the launch costs and sending agent for such journeys. Space Adventure Inc. kilometers above the Earth's sea level. cargo into space. Moreover the ability of the agency in turn contacted Atlas Aerospace, Hence Virgin Galactic plan to provide travel civilians being in space may have which is a company especially made to to where customers may experience positive consequences in the social, provide tourist with the ability to travel into weightlessness, as well as the sight of economic and political arenas. space and enjoy other space related earth's curvature. Even more intriguing is activities. Additionally, the agency arrange a that Virgin Galactic is not the only company Global consciousness seat on their shuttle and possibly a stay on the with such as mission, as there are few Russian part of the ISS. If approved, then the others that wishes to offer the same type of awakening wealthy customer pay anywhere from services. Once humanity reaches space on a $20million to $30 million for the service massive scale, the experience will have a Some companies even aim to provide an profound effect on individuals. Many Along with the approval and booking of the orbital type of flight. Orbital flight suggest astronauts have talked about this effect, space agency, the participants are required to

20 SPECIAL REPORT

fulfill medical requirements, accomplish proper training and usually pay a deposit of flight will take much longer time, and will be in about an hour climb to an altitude of some 10%.further difficulties has recently arisen much more intense physically and 15,000 meters where a countdown for the recently as National Aeronautic and Space psychologically due to sophisticated release of the SS2 begins. Upon releasing, Administration has retired its space shuttle nature of the trip. the SS2 ignites its rocket engines and program, which in turn means that Dennis Tito and others who venture into achieves a speed of about 4000 kilometers astronauts may only use Soyuz rockets to the hostile territory of space spent 6 per hour, during which time passengers will travel into space, hence there are now months training, which amounted to 900 experience subsonic flight of March 3. After fewer seas available for tourists to travel, hours in order to be properly qualified to 60 to 90 hours, the rocket engine will shut which in turn makes the tickets even more join the professional astronauts, once down and passengers will find themselves expensive . it has been reported that the orbital trips become widespread, the experiencing zero-gravity. Upon reaching singer Sarah Brightman, who wishes to preparation would last somewhere around microgravity passengers will unbuckle their realize her dream of traveling to space, may 3 months, yet it would cover all of the same seatbelts and float around, perform face a bill of up to $51 million. This is due to field as earlier programmes. Space maneuvers that they cannot do on earth the limit in the number of seats available on tourists would train for 258 hours and may even decide to see how water or Soyuz, where as a consequence of her trip, comprising five modules. other substance behave in such one astronaut might has to stay for a whole year at the ISS instead of six months.

After a customer passes the medical requirements, the training period may begin. The type of training is greatly influenced by the type of spacecraft the operator uses, for instance, Virgin Galactic does not require any type of space suits and has no emergency egress procedure, while other sub orbital operators might have one. The general outlook of sub orbital training would encompass familiarity with the spacecraft, the space environment and the crew as well as passengers.

The flight participants would be greeted at the airport and transferred to the hotel where administrative procedure would take place. At the operators training facility customers would receive various informational and study materials, ranging from manual to missile patches. At this stage they will be provided with space suits of the operator deems it necessary. Later the passenger the will mingles with one environment. After 3 to 4 minutes, they will another and het acquainted with the crew. Orbital space tourism would require all Ibe asked to return to their seats for descent. As they become familiar with each other, customers to master all emergency and Re-entry is one of the most crucial steps for rthey would tour the space port seeing safety procedures in order to be able to both spacecraft and passengers. mission control, training facilities and the properly respond in those situations. spacecraft that would take them to the sub Presently, space flight participants that The SS2 will experience heating of the hull orbit. have gone on a flight with Russian Suyuz doe to the density of he atmosphere, while rocket have had intensive physical and passengers will experience up to 6 Gs of With the space flight procedure manual, the psychological training in addition to force on their bodies, although their inclined education of space activity would begin. mastering a variety of safety procedures. position will ease the tension. The SS2 land Future space flight participants would study Crew members rely on each other and and passengers will disembark after an such thing as the history of first astronauts, must be able to handle emergency unforgettable experience. In journey with space flight theory and rocket engines, how situations with utmost proficiency. In this SXC, the process will be a bit different. Only vehicle perform and more specific technical regard, they are required to be familiar one passenger will board the Lynx 2 and will details. Further knowledge would be with Soyuz capsule, certain technical be seated in the cockpit next to the pilot. required in physiology, survival training and operations and mastered all safety The spacecraft will taxi to the runway and high altitude functions. The most physically procedures. takeoff. the take off will be different as than straining part of the training would be that of the SS2, as the Lynx will immediately concluded with the g-tolerance experience. Voyage have a steep incline and will break the Over the next couple of days, the theory sound barrier within less than a minute. would be revisited and more performance There are two types of take off, horizontal and vertical. Depending on the further Over the next two minutes, the passenger tests would be done, ranging from experiences March 3 and at 60 kilometers centrifuge runs to systems training. advancements and successes of the sub orbital spacecraft, operators will most in altitude the engine shut down, yet vehicle continues upward to experience zero For orbital trip, the medical requirements likely use a horizontal take off. Space craft will either be linked to the mother ship, as gravity. The passenger of the Lynx 2 are much ore stringent and demanding. experiences weightlessness for 5 to 5 This is due to duration microgravity one will in the case of Virgin Galactic, or a single vehicle, such as Lynx 1 and 2.eithert way, it minutes, and then the spacecraft proceed be experiencing. The resulting effect will put toward re-entry. Upon re-entry, the pilot and a strain on one's body and must be will have to include a rocket to achieve the altitude of the Karman line for the the passenger feel the exertion of 4 Gs on accounted for. The medical examination their bodies. The whole trip takes about an will be equivalent and those for astronauts passengers to feel microgravity. After boarding, both the mother ship with hour and then the passenger is back on the and many potential customers will likely not ground with new sensation and memories. be eligible. The training for orbital space the SS2 spacecraft attached take off, and 21 SPECIAL REPORT

habitats sich as the ones that Bigelow by his space experience that he is now In both cases, passengers will feel a force of Aerospace od developing. planning, coordinating an funding a manned 1.5 to 4 Ds on take off, reaching speeds of mission to Mars. Although such a campaign March 3, and on descent experience a force When Felix Baumgartner made his epic is lacking further funding and most LIKELY of 1.5 to 6Gs.Although, such high exertion on jump from the edge of space the broadcast will not happen due to the time constraint of the human body are serious, it will was televised allover the world. Red Bull having the proper alignment of Mars to nevertheless be part of the space tourism was undoubtedly happy to see its logo Earth, it nevertheless shows the efforts and experience that many look forward to. The have such a tremendous reach. Similarly, the direction space tourism is moving in. orbital spacecraft will have to use at least a in the future orbital tourists might decide to two stage spacecraft to reach orbit unless perform such campaigns, while also it is presumed by the Royal Bank of Canada there is some great revolution within the enjoying the experience of a space that the millionaires' rate of growth shall propulsion systems industry, which is quite environment, not only an extraordinary increase by 6.5% annually. Conveniently, unlikely in the foreseeable future. A two experience, but perhaps ever profitable this is when sub orbital space tourism will be stage spacecraft means that a part of the one as well. As orbital space progresses, making its debut and establishing itself space vehicle will detach somewhere along trip to the moon, or at least to orbit the within the tourism market. Although the ticket the trip and be returned safely to earth by moon, might become available, providing prices may be high for ordinary individuals, means of a parachute and be reused in the tourists with further options and activities. there will be enough wealthy individuals with next trip. SpaceX is making great progress In any case, future orbital space tourists the needed resources to purchase a ticket or with a 2 stage type spacecraft with its Falcon will have a variety of choices of how to two aboard their choice of spaceship. rocket and Dragon capsule, yet it will be the spend their 1 pr 2 week vacation. some time before commercial orbital flights are widely available. Sub orbital flights are at Return to Earth International sales agents the forefront, and the one of the most Upon returning to earth from a sub orbital The two most prominent companies offering significant parts of the triup has thus far been trip, passengers will surely feel flights to sub orbit are Virgin Galactic and given little attention, namely the space pilot. exuberance. the exclusivity of the Space Exploration Corporation. Virgin extraordinary experience must be Galactic partnered with already well Human are not re3ady to trust automated commemorated. The space flight established travel agency Virtuoso and its process when it comes to space travel. To participants will surely be decorated with affiliated member Hirley Travel Experts in the instill complete confidence in customers and their achievement by receiving an United States, while also agreeing a assure then that they have someone to rely astronaut badge or space wings, as well as relationship with Club Tourism Space Tours on if something goes wrong, sun orbital a certificate of accomplished training and Inc of the KNT-CT holdings Corporation in tourists will need a special kind of pilot. the sub orbital space flight. Japan. These agencies specialize in luxury Additionally, automated processes tend to This process is as crucial to the customer travel and through them one may book be more expensive to develop, so human as to the operator. the operator affirms its special flights, cruises, tours and stays at pilot are another way for space operators to credibility and further promotes it business luxury destinations. The was to increase minimize their costs. According to present venture. In addition, the customer feels public attention, help with marketing and day standards sub orbital pilot must be a fulfilled by achieving an accomplishment sales of sub orbital travel to have greatest federal Aviation Administration class 1 that few others have. public outreach. In addition, such companies certificate, which is also held by commercial have specialized offline agencies that help airline pilot. Although this is enough, in the Moreover, the accomplished space flight clientele choose the best option of what they future sub orbital pilots will need to train on participants might attend a future gala are looking for. Virgin Galactic has simulators to be completely competent for dinner and share their experiences, if successfully positioned itself and increased the operations of the flight. positive and properly ,marketed it could its credibility by partnering with luxury travel serve as unique promotional campaign to agony which has also given sub orbital While it is officially sufficient qualification for draw even more customers to sub orbital space tourism much needed certainty. a sub orbital pilot to hold a license, it is highly tourism. Virgin Galactic has already recommended that the sub orbital pilot have concluded a partnership with NBC to SXC has followed Virgin Galactic's example a background in the airforce or are televise the fist sub orbital space trip and with equally established and known experienced test pilots.. this is primarily due the feelings, experience and joy of the company. One of their partners is Uniktour, to the reason that the pilots will be participants will echo around the world. To which is based in Montreal, Qubec in experiencing g-forces while withstanding the capitalize on such a momentous Canada. Uniktour is an organization that strenuous condition of the flight. Moreover, achievements, customer satisfaction and focuses amongst variety of travel the pilot will have to be charismatic and a privilege must be at the forefront. destinations. With the advances in sub somewhat good tour guide to make Operators of sub orbital space tourism orbital space tourism it decided to promote passengers feel secure, confident and services will also want to hear feedback SXC in North America/SXC has already had provide proper support to the ones from customers, hence a quick survey sales in China and the UAE ad has marketed experiencing space motion sickness. Such might be designed to find out about future itself quite successfully worldwide, and it will have to be well compensated and improvements of the business. also offered its services through the most motivated. famous adventure agency, Incredible In the case of orbital space tourism, after adventure, which provide almost every Orbital tourism will be a completely different flight experience will be different. The possible thrill activity that exists on planet experience compared to sub orbital flight. momentous occasion will be properly earth and now even beyond. Space After intense preparation, space flight honoured and documented as in the sub adventure offers lunar mission, orbital flights, p[arrticpants will board the spacecraft that is orbital type, however, medical examination sub orbital flights and zero gravity flights. then launched verticvally into space. They and post flight procedures will also have to Orbital flights have already been sold and it will most ceetainly wear space suits and will be followed. Medical assessments is appear that the popularity is still intact as stay in space for a much longer duration then crucial for the customers safety as well as Sarah Brightman announced that she too a mere 5 minutes. They will have many more for further research on the effect of the wishes to participate in orbital space tourism. choices of what they want to do when they space environment on the human body Lunar flights are launched in cooperation are up tjhere.they can dwecide if they want to and the psyche. Many professionals with Russian partners and only one ticket is orbit the earth at specific locations for astronauts have already become public available on a lunar mission. The cost is sightseeing, for instance some of them may spokesmen fpr orbital space tourism, staggering at $150 million, however their want to fly over the red sea. Many will choose promoting it by way of speeches, research customer wants to stay anonymous. to board the ISS or other potential space and funding. Dennisn Tito was so torched IN THE NEWS

World Bank approves Exolaunch to deliver UAE Space Agency's US$200 million project small satellite into orbit on Soyuz-2 to improve digital Berlin-based Exolaunch, a processing that brings o u r m a r k e t - l e a d i n g leading launch services and increased precision and EXOpoddeployer for this services, access to deployment system provider accuracy to the SWIR Soyuz-2 mission,” Jeanne for small satellites has s pectrometer data. The Medvedeva, Commercial jobs for youth in announced that the launch combination of visible and Director at Exolaunch, said. of a 3U cubesat, MeznSat, SWIR bands will make “The UAE Space Agency is Jordan for the UAE Space Agency MeznSat a unique CubeSat nurturing some of the will be performed aboard a m i s s i o n , s p e c i f i c a l l y world's brightest young The World Bank Group's Board of Executive S o y u z - 2 r o c k e t . T h e designed to generate a rich minds who apply space- Directors has approved a US$200 million purpose of the satellite is to d a t a s e t f o r e x p l o r i n g based solutions to tackle project to increase access to employment for study and monitor the atmospheric correction global issues. It is extremely Jordanian youth and expand digital government g r e e n h o u s e g a s e s , algorithms. rewarding for us to support services, according to a statement published on specifically CO2 and their vision.” the bank's website. Methane, over the UAE. MeznSat is scheduled for E x o l a u n c h ' s v a s t TheYouth, Technology and Jobs project will launch in mid-2020. It is experience in cubesat adopt an integrated approach that aims to MeznSat is a nanosatellite accommodated on one of the for climate observation, upcoming Soyuz-2 federal launches, which includes capitalise on Jordan's potential to grow its digital manufactured by Khalifa launches as part of the small the deployment of 89 small economy and absorb skilled labour to address University of Science and satellite cluster launch satellites into orbit to date, two main challenges facing the country: Technology (KUST) in contract between Exolaunch will ensure the success of Economic growth and job creation, the p a r t n e r s h i p w i t h t h e and Glavkosmos, the this important launch and statement said. American University of Ras operator of international initiative. Moreover, UAE The project will provide professional skills Al-Khaimah (AURAK) and commercial activities for the Space Agency's goal of programmes to 30,000 youth, a technology funded by the UAE Space R u ssi a n Sta te Sp a ce d e v e l o p i n g s t u d e n t curriculum for public school grades seven to 12 Agency. The satellite's Corporation Roscosmos. competencies makes this a and workspaces in underserved communities. primary payload will be a Glavkosmos has been a p a r t i c u l a r l y e x c i t i n g The project will also support access to markets shortwave infrared (SWIR) r e l i a b l e p a r t n e r f o r collaboration, as Exolaunch for entrepreneurs and incentivise businesses to spectrometer that makes Exolaunch, and it is pleased will be able to utilize its expand their operations in underserved observations in the 1000- that the partners from the educational background to communities. It will improve access for youth to 1650 nm wavelength range UAE have chosen a Soyuz lead students through the freelancing platforms and enhance government to derive atmospheric launch vehicle for delivering entire process of a launch digital services and digital payment, according g r e e n h o u s e g a s MeznSat into orbit. arrangement. This Soyuz-2 to the statement. concentrations. mission serves as a The project aims to generate 10,000 new The secondary payload on “We are proud to apply our milestone for both small income opportunities for youth in the coming five MeznSat will consist of a b e s t - i n - c l a s s l a u n c h satellite engineering and years, including women (30 per cent) and Syrian VGA camera for post- services expertise and utilize space education. refugees in freelance opportunities (15 per cent). It aims to digitise more than 80 per cent of government payments and mobilise around $20 Sigfox, Center 2M to expand Russian IoT million in new private sector investments in digital services, noted the statement. networks Information technology activities achieved a growth of 11.64 per cent between 2014 and Sigfox Russia is partnering & Partner Management at coverage to allow it to 2018 in Jordan, where annual revenues with venture capital firm Sigfox, said: “Russia is a extend beyond Tele2's increased by about $300 million. Mobile and Energo Capital to launch its key country not only coverage areas. Internet penetration rates reached 85 per cent Sigfox 0G IoT network. Set because of market size, and 88.8 per cent, respectively, in 2018. to cover over 85% of which is predicted to grow Center 2M has been an 'The Jordanian digital sector shows promising Russia's population, the to US$7.6 billion in 2022. growth potential,'Minister of Digital Economy active MVNO in and around network will use ultra-long For the global economy, Moscow since 2018 but is and Entrepreneurship Mothanna Gharaibeh coverage base stations was quoted in the statement as saying. Russia is also very now expanding into the rest that Sigfox notes will use 'Jordan has embarked on a journey to position i m p o r t a n t f o r t h e of Russia. It is currently also itself as a technology hub serving the globe. Key “millions of sensors, d i g i t a l i s a t i o n o f discussing the possibility of technology leaders from the US, Europe and metering and other devices thousands of kilometres connecting to Beeline and Asia have selected Jordan for their technical to connect through low- of railway corridors within MegaFon's networks. service centres. p o w e r , s i m p l e a n d the Belt & Road Initiative, 'It is imperative for the government, the private i n e x p e n s i v e r a d i o all the way through the Center 2M technical director sector, academia and civil society to join efforts modules.” Baltics and Poland to Dmitry Elansky said: “Today in promoting the development of technology Western Europe.” we provide a full range of talents and fostering the conditions for the Going forward, Sigfox telecommunication services expansion of the digital economy and digital Russia aims to use an ELO In another Russia-based in the field of industrial government services. Investing in human nanosatellite constellation IoT development, local I n t e r n e t o f T h i n g s capital will guarantee the most economic and that it is deploying together systems integrator Center exclusively for legal entities. social return for the Kingdom,' the minister said. with Eutelsat in order to 2M is launching a federal We use our network both for The Youth, Technology and Jobs project deliver coverage to places MVNO-based service m o b i l e d a t a t r a n s f e r contributes to the Skilling-Up Mashreq initiative where terrestrial 0G could using Tele2 Russia's launched by the World Bank in November 2018 between smart devices not be achieved, including mobile network. The (M2M), and as a transport to train at least 500,000 students, graduates and Taiga and the Northern Sea workers in digital skills in Jordan, Lebanon and service will be dedicated part of our own Center 2M Route. Iraq, as these countries pledged to overhaul entirely to IoT projects, software solutions in certain regulations to rejuvenate their digital Bertrand Rame, Senior a n d M T S p r o v i d e industries for digitalisation of economies. Vice President Expansion d o m e s t i c r o a m i n g the Russian economy.” The NILESAT 201 satellite Satellite distress alerting

Historically, searching for missing people on land was a community responsibility assumed by local police forces seconded by volunteers. With the considerable growth of maritime and aeronautical trade, searching for missing mariners and aviators soon required a higher level of organisation and is now a State responsibility assumed by specialised personnel, according to this report.

On 3 September 1989, 20:35 UTC, the 21:35 UTC, ACC Belém declared Belém received via telephone a Varig flight RG-254, a Boeing 737-200 an 'Incerfa' (uncertainty phase), followed Cospas-Sarsat location (the A and B aircraft, took off from Marabá, in northern by a 'distress phase' at 00:35 UTC, four position Brazil, on the last leg of its flight to Belém. hours after the aircraft had taken-off from coordinates: 09o50' S/052o04' W and The flight crew had inadvertently entered Marabá. This started a full scale SAR 10o57' S/051o55' W) for a possible the wrong heading (270? instead of 27? ) operation and RCC Belém asked INPE 121.5 MHz ELT, far from the expected into the flight computer (i.e., a West (Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas aircraft flight path. A search in this area heading instead of the required Espaciais; the Brazilian space agency was programmed on the next day. On North/North-East heading). After the that was operating a LEOLUT) for the next morning, 05 September, SAR expected flight time to reach Belém, unable possible satellite alerts. resources were concentrated in the to locate the destination airport, the crew The aircraft did not have a 'fixed' ELT indicated Mato Grosso region. finally discovered the error. However, the which could have been automatically 121.5 MHz signals were received aircraft was far from a suitable airfield and triggered by the crash landing. However, intermittently by the search aircraft, but the crew had lost considerable time, having it carried a water activated ELT, a type they were unable to home on the tuned its navigation receiver on the wrong that would transmit in case of immersion signals radio-aids (same Non-Directional Beacon after a landing on water. The pilot using the aircraft direction finder. More frequencies as expected for Belém, but had recovered the ELT and used ice Cospas-Sarsat locations were incorrect NDB identifications), the aircraft cubes from the aircraft galleys, and urine, forwarded to RCC Belém. The same ran out of fuel. The pilots had to make an to trigger ELT transmissions. On the morning, emergency landing in full darkness. Forty second day, a passenger, an two survivors of the crash went for help three of the fifty four aircraft occupants experienced gold miner, went out to find and reached the Curumaré farm at survived the forced landing. A twelfth water and discovered a creek, which 17:15 UTC, where they could make passenger died before being rescued. helped phone calls to aviation authorities. All communications with Air-traffic Control maintain the ELT operation. Approximately 44 hours after the Centre, ACC Belém, had been via HF. At At 12:50 UTC on 04 September, RCC accident, the downed aircraft was SPECIAL REPORT

finally located at the position 10o46' conditions that evening were not 13:20:05 UTC indicating a Doppler A S/052o21' W - 1,100 km from the favourable for a single-handed position of 19o38' S / 023o17' E with a intended destination. One injured yachtsman, with rough seas and a 91 % probability. passenger was evacuated by helicopter northerly force 7/8 wind speed. The A second LEOSAR overpass of the on the same evening. All remaining casualty had attempted to alert SAR distress site by Sarsat-8 at 13:15 UTC survivors were evacuated on the authorities using his mobile phone on 14 September was tracked by the following day. Maj. Av. Fábio L.C. but had been thwarted by flat batteries. Saudi Arabian LEOLUT at Jeddah, and Barbosa DECEA (Air Space Control In the end, a correctly registered beacon, a resolved position of 19o38' S / Department) - SAR Planning Section, good LEO data, and 121.5 MHz homing 023o17' E was provided to South Africa Brazil. saved the day and his life. at 13:28:44 UTC. A helicopter was sent to the coordinates and was able to 406 MHz Beacon registration Bird strike in Botswana: 406 reach the site at 14:45 UTC. Within two MHz ELT alert received within hours of the emergency landing, all saves life passengers and the pilot were safely GPS position data encoded in 406 MHz minutes evacuated. Mr. Derek Cooper of the beacon distress messages is a South African Cospas-Sarsat MCC tremendous help for SAR operations, as On Thursday, 14 September 2006, a said, “The 406 MHz ELT carried by the demonstrated in numerous alerts. pilot with the Flying Mission Services of Flying Mission Services aircraft However, the value of a reliable Doppler Gaborne, Botswana, took off from provided the first and only alert in this position and accurate registration Nxabega with four passengers on what distress incident. The fact that the information was again demonstrated by should have been a routine flight to beacon was properly registered the following incident. At 20:33, 30 Tsigaro. The Cessna 206 aircraft took off allowed search and rescue to proceed January 2003 the operations duty watch at 12:07 UTC, anticipating a short flight quickly, with the first responders at MRCC Falmouth received, via the UK with an estimated time of arrival at arriving on scene only one and a half Mission Control Centre (UKMCC) at Tsigaro at 13:25 UTC. About 15 minutes hours after the emergency landing.” Kinloss, an alert from a 406 MHz beacon into the flight, the pilot looked up to see a equipped with a GPS receiver. However, large bird, less than 20 meters away. He no position data was available, either said, “I immediately turned left, trying to encoded or derived from Doppler avoid the vulture, but the bird hit directly Search and Rescue, free of processing. The UK 406 EPIRB into the windscreen on the pilot side. charge? database was checked and the There was a huge blast and I felt a strong Historically, searching for missing emergency contact provided the last hit into my face and my upper body.” Two people on land was a community known position of the vessel, confirming miles from Stanley's it was apparent that responsibility assumed by local police that there was only one person onboard. we wouldn't make it to the field. forces seconded by volunteers. With MRCC Falmouth was able to ascertain a I saw a flat clear opening with shallow the considerable growth of maritime possible search area. water just past a little lagoon. As soon as and aeronautical trade, searching for At 20:45, the first LEO satellite data the airplane touched the water, the plane missing mariners and aviators soon provided good position information, looped and water gushed into the cabin. required a higher level of organisation although at this stage there still wasn't When we stopped moving, we were and resources that were not available any GPS data. A helicopter and lifeboat hanging upside down in our seat belts. to local communities. Search and were tasked and vessels in the vicinity My head was in the water.” Rescue at sea and on land is now a were alerted. At 21:01 a second Doppler The pilot helped all evacuate the plane State responsibility assumed by location was received confirming the through the co-pilot side window. He specialised personnel. previous data. As the incident states, “I climbed back into the airplane In many countries, volunteers in civil progressed and more satellite passes to see if I would be able to make a SAR organisations still provide an were received, the position was further distress call. I could not get the radios to essential contribution to the SAR effort pinpointed. The SAR resources used work but the Emergency Locator at sea and on land. Some examples directional finding equipment to pick up Transmitter (ELT) was beeping.” The a r e : t h e M o u n t a i n R e s c u e the beacon's 121.5 MHz homing device Cape Town Cospas-Sarsat Mission Organisations and the Royal National and were able to identify the casualty. Control Centre (ASMCC) received an Lifeboat Institution, RNLI in the UK; the The helicopter was able to isolate strong un-located alert from the UK's 'Société Nationale de Sauvetage en 121.5 MHz signals, 15 NM from the Geostationary satellite station Mer' (SNSM - sea rescue organisation) target, flying at 1,800 feet. The yacht had (GEOLUT) at 12:32:21 UTC on 14 in France, or the Search and Rescue been dismasted and was floating just September. The beacon's identification Volunteer Association of Canada, beneath the water. The lifeboat rescued was decoded and the registration data SARVAC. SAR operations, even when the single occupant. The beacon indicated that the aircraft was registered conducted by volunteers, have a cost continued to transmit, but it was not until to the Botswana Flying Mission which can be assessed, although with 22:41 hours that the first GPS data was Services. The RCC operators were able some uncertainty as the evaluation of received. The importance of beacon to use this information to begin cost elements associated with registration, especially in the early telephone liaison with the listed volunteers or occasional use of public stages of SAR action, is well highlighted emergency contact, approximately 18 assets has no firm 'market' basis. in this incident. Although GPS data was minutes after beacon activation. However, such costs can not immediately available, given the LEO The GEO detection was followed by vary greatly from country to country. position data, information from the LEOSAR detection at 13:15 UTC by Therefore, it would be unrealistic to registered shore contact and the ability to Sarsat-10, tracked by the South African quote a global figure for the cost of SAR home in on 121.5 MHz, the rescue was LUT. This detection provided an alert services worldwide and assessments successfully completed. The weather message that was sent to the RCC at must remain at national level, or for specific regions of the world.

IN THE NEWS ASIA

The Internet Association tremendous expansion of services both and give impetus to the industrialization of into and out of Australia.” relevant technologies by means of of Australia announces Elaborating on the importance of the strategy planning and resource collaboration, Mr. Michael Glynn, Vice integration, etc. interconnect via API President of Digital Automated with PCCW GlobalP Innovation, PCCW Global, said, “Over the last six months, we have focused on Telefonica, KT, China CCW Global, the international operating building our core platform in Asia, North division of HKT, Hong Kong's premier and South America, Europe, Africa and Unicom and Telstra sign telecommunications service provider, and the Middle East. We have recently multi-operator edge the Internet Association of Australia (IAA), upgraded our backbone from Australia a leading non-profit organization to Asia and the USA, and I am pleased platform MoU operating Australia's largest Internet that we can now welcome key partners exchange network, announced their API to the platform in Australia.” Telefonica has signed a memorandum of interconnect and bilateral collaboration. Mr. Glynn added, “Having a partner like understanding with KT, China Unicom and the Internet Association of Australia Telstra to collaborate on a Multi-Operator Under the new collaboration, customers enables its members to access our pay- Multiaccess Edge Computing (MEC) of either PCCW Global's Console as-you-go global uncontended network initiative as part of the GSMA's project to Connect SDI® platform or IAA's peering and extend their reach between key data develop a common edge cloud platform fabric IX Australia will be able to centers, cloud services / partners or for telecom operators. The partners said seamlessly access all network services other users across our global platform. the aim of the MoU is to obtain feedback on either carrier or fabric through their The collaboration will also, in time, from both operators and developer respective online portals. All IAA facilitate extended reach for our global communities that can be shared with the members on their national Internet customers to more data centers in GSMA's Operator Platform as well as exchange platform can now access Australia and New Zealand.” standards bodies and open source Console Connect on-demand. PCCW communities responsible for developing Global has an extensive global network Geely's subsidiary to different MEC components. footprint, with points of presence The initiative has been divided into four worldwide and interconnections directly launch satellite in 2020 phases, starting with the development of with key cloud, IX, IoT and SaaS partners basic Edge Computing capabilities such worldwide, all of whom are accessible and GEESPACE, a subsidiary of Geely as interconnection of MEC platforms, available via the platform. Technology Group, plans to launch a smart edge discovery and smart resource pair of satellites this year for the allocation, to optimise the provisioning The IAA is a member-based association validation of relevant technologies and and delivery of edge services over a providing technical services including communications system, according to a global footprint. peering through its IX Australia network, local media report. From the time being, Additional phases involve enabling the largest non-profit, carrier-neutral the design of the yet-to-be-launched mobility features by evaluating a use case Internet exchange in Australia. With a satellites has been completed, said the in which end customers move from one membership comprising carriers, service foregoing source. To accomplish the geographical point to another, making providers, content providers, distributors, goal, the subsidiary attempts to recruit services available for roamers to use the research and education, private over 100 employees for 40 posts, most edge when moving from their home enterprise and industry professionals, IAA of which are about technical engineering network to a different network and is a vital nexus for the industry and driver and branding. focusing on federation capabilities. of innovation. Founded in 2018, GEESPACE focuses China Unicom launches The Console Connect SDI® platform on the R&D of satellite communications spans over 128 data centers in more than system, electronic products, and major structural reform 40 countries, and the number is growing technologies about communications with more connections being added and data processing, according to the China Unicom, one of the country's top continuously. Customers can purchase Chinese business research platform three telecom operators, has started a on-demand connectivity between key Tianyancha. Aiming to becoming a structural overhaul to facilitate internet- data centers, partners and all major cloud world's leading provider of AICT o r i e n t e d o p e r a t i o n a n d d i g i t a l on-ramp operators, including AWS Direct ( A e r o s p a c e I n f o r m a t i o n transformation. According to a plan made Connect, Microsoft Azure, IBM Cloud, C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Te c h n o l o g y ) public, the reform aims to address acute Oracle Cloud, Google Cloud, Alibaba infrastructures and solutions, the problems regarding the lack of corporate Cloud, Tencent Cloud and NAVER company is dedicated to promoting the coordination, product competitiveness, Business Platform. They can also directly commercialized upgrade for China's and integration of online and offline connect with other key IX operators in satellite industrial chain. businesses. Europe and the United States who are already on the platform, including players Geely, one of most prominent China's The operator will establish a four-tier such as DE-CIX. indigenous auto brands, has stretched operation system under the coordination its reaches to various high-tech fields of a "whole market" scheme and better Mr. David Hooton, IAA Chair, said, “IAA is beyond automobile. In November 2018, integrate its market resources. It will also committed to the development and growth Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely speed up the transformation of products, of the industry, both within Australia and Holding) and China Aerospace Science channels and innovation, and further internationally. Collaborating with PCCW & Industry Corp. (CASIC) inked a clarify the management approaches and Global on a project like this is beneficial to strategic cooperation agreement that functions of the headquarters to boost our members and the wider Internet focuses on development of hyper flight organizational efficiency. community as it removes connection train and Industrial Internet. complexity, allowing opportunities to Under the agreement, both companies readily expand for global reach. This would jointly develop key programs of The new reform marked another big step enables our members to deliver a hyper flight train and Industrial Internet toward empowering the telecom giant 28 IN THE NEWS ASIA with innovation and internet-oriented operating on the WGS constellation. Its Pacific. Designed and manufactured by operation models after a mixed- flexibility and efficiency open up new Boeing, Kacific1 is a high-throughput, ka- ownership revamp was launched in 2017 capabilities for high-speed data links, band satellite which successfully launched to introduce private investment. complementing existing WGS-certified on 16 December 2019 from Cape E v o l u t i o n D e f e n s e s o l u t i o n s . Canaveral, Florida. The payload and bus SKT, Singtel, AIS set up platform were thoroughly tested and all 56 The MDM9000 is ideal for aggregating spot beams are now operating with full esports JV targeting data – from sensor data to video footage functionality from the 150E orbital position. Southeast Asia – to be sent back to a central location, as well as any other applications requiring Kacific engineers are upskilling local point-to-point, dedicated links. In engineers in the installation and SK Telecom Co., leading mobile carrier addition, its bulk encryption module maintenance of the satellite ground in the Republic of Korea, has said that it provides 256-bit AES link encryption on technology. The rapid rollout will continue in would establish a joint venture with major both content and management layers to coming months connecting both new end telecommunication firms from Singapore provide the security that is paramount in users and those being transferred from the and Thailand to develop gaming and military operations provisional Ku-band network to Kacific1's exports services for the Southeast Asian Ka-band services. Kacific's broadband market. “Our latest WGS certification marks services are available in Asia Pacific SK Telecom has joined hands with another significant milestone in our countries through local telecommunications Singapore Telecommunications Ltd. efforts to deliver military-grade and internet service providers. (Singtel) and Advanced Info Service communications solutions which can Public Company Ltd. (AIS) of Thailand to provide the bandwidth, flexibility and Countries in Pacific covered by Kacific1 set up a joint venture that focuses on security required by global militaries to include American Samoa, Cook Islands, providing gaming platform services, the carry out missions successfully and Fiji, French Polynesia, Guam, Kiribati, RoK'sYonhap news agency reported. reliably,” said Koen Willems, Head of Micronesia, New Zealand, Niue, Northern The three companies will have equal International Government Satcom at ST Mariana, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, shares in the joint venture, which will Engineering iDirect. “We are proud that Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu. start its services later this year. The latest the modem has passed the stringent In Asia, the satellite covers Bangladesh, deal marks the expansion of the evaluation and testing of the certification Bhutan, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, partnership signed between SK Telecom process and can join our vast portfolio of Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Timor-Leste and Singtel last February. Then, the two accredited government and defense and Southern Thailand. sides agreed to cooperate in the region's solutions. gaming sector.The companies will keep searching for new partners and game The WGS system is a constellation of Viasat, Blacktree developers that can help the joint highly capable military communications Technology sign venture. Instead of developing mobile or satellites used by the United States of online games, the joint venture aims to Department of Defense (DoD), Canada agreement to enhance provide a global social network of Department of National Defence, support Australian gamers and operate businesses related Australian Department of Defence, as to esports and media content. Its well as other partner countries. Defence Force and Five services may include broadcasting Eyes Partners Brazil - esports competitions using virtual reality As the backbone of the U.S. military's technology and making video content of global satellite communications, WGS Português professional esports players, according provides flexible, high-capacity to SK Telecom communications for the nation's war Viasat Inc. announced it signed a Strategic fighters through procurement and Alliance Agreement (SAA) with Blacktree operation of the satellite constellation ST Engineering iDirect Technology,Pty Ltd (Blacktree), an and the associated control systems. Australian-based communications systems announces wideband WGS provides worldwide flexible, high design and integration company. The SAA data rate and long-haul communications global satcom will enable Viasat and Blacktree to meet the for war fighters, government agencies, needs of the Australian Defence Force certification of its a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l p a r t n e r s . (ADF) requirements, by providing rapid and Newtec MDM9000 cost-effective in-country manufacturing and This WGS certification highlights ST support services for Ultra High Frequency satellite modem Engineering iDirect's ability to provide (UHF) satellite communications (SATCOM) the highest quality levels of design, systems. development, production, delivery, ST Engineering iDirect, a company of ST Colin Cooper, general manager, installation, and maintenance of Engineering North America, has Government Systems, Viasat Australia information and communications announced that its Newtec MDM9000 commented, "Our agreement with technology products, including modem has received the Wideband Blacktree will play a critical role in hardware, software and services. Global SATCOM (WGS) Certification. supporting and expanding UHF support and This expands its portfolio of WGS- maintenance resources in Australia, and certified solutions, which include the Kacific1 Broadband will provide opportunities to investigate iDirect Evolution Defense platform, export of UHF products and services to Five Tactical Hub, and 9-Series family of Services start across Eyes (FVEY) and coalition UHF military modems Asia Pacific SATCOM user nations." "Blacktree welcomes the formalisation of Designed to support a wide range of Kacific Broadband Satellites' first the alliance with Viasat, which strengthens fixed and mobile government and communications satellite, Kacific1, a relationship that enhances ongoing defense applications, the field-proven entered commercial service and is ready innovation and development of UHF MDM9000 modem is now one of the to support customers across Asia SATCOM solutions and support for Defence most powerful DVB-S2X modems customers in Australia and internationally,"

29 IN THE NEWS ASIA said Joe Nevin, director, Blacktree commissioned by Facebook. Beijing will set up seven major Technology. In its fourth year, the index covered 100 demonstration projects to promote the Viasat's leadership in critical technology countries, representing 91pc of the world's application of the Beidou system in smart segments such as SATCOM, tactical population and 96pc of global GDP. On a transportation, environment protection networks and cybersecurity offers an scale of one (best) to 100 (worst), Pakistan and intelligent logistics, according to the opportunity for Australia to modernise stood at the 56th place out of the total plan. systems used by the ADF. Viasat is a countries surveyed. leader in UHF SATCOM and is working to assure global 25-kHz Demand- The first country ranked in this year's index China launches Beidou Assigned Multiple-Access and next- is Sweden, followed by New Zealand and satellite as it aims for generation Integrated Waveform (IW) the United States. Australia and Denmark networks and services, enabled by both ranked fourth, followed by South completion of Viasat's Visual Integrated Satellite Korea, Canada, the United Kingdom, navigation network in communications Information, Operation France and Spain. Among the global worst and Networking (VISION) software are Burandi at 100th, Liberia, Madagascar, May platform continue to meet military Malawi and Burkina Faso. mission requirements. A Chinese Long March 3B launcher This year's index is accompanied by the carried a Beidou satellite into orbit, Viasat'sKa-band broadband satellites '2020 Value of the Internet Survey', to adding the penultimate satellite to combined currently offer more understand how the internet is used and China's independent navigation fleet bandwidth than any other satellite perceived. The poll gathered views from before another mission in May completes operator in the world. Viasat is a 4,953 respondents in 99 countries across the constellation to give it a global reach. v e r t i c a l l y i n t e g r a t e d s a t e l l i t e Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Europe, the The Beidou navigation payload rocketed communications technology and Middle East, North Africa and Sub-Saharan into space from the Xichang space center services company, and is a leading Africa. According to Facebook, more than in southwestern China's Sichuan provider of highly integrated GEO half of the world's population — 4.1 billion is province, according to the state-run payloads, components & subsystems, connected to the internet. On the other Xinhua news agency. gateway/teleport antenna systems, hand, more than 3.5bn people are still networking systems, user terminals for deprived of the 'opportunities' brought by A 184-foot-tall (56-meter) Long March 3B fixed & mobile applications, ASICs, the internet. rocket delivered the Beidou navigation MMICS, and/or modules for third party satellite into an elliptical, or egg-shaped, terminal developers. The social media giant noted that the rate of geosynchronous transfer orbit. China's Importantly from a defence perspective, growth of internet access in low-income government-owned media declared the beginning in 2021, Viasat plans to countries had slowed significantly. On launch a success. China has launched launch a new, global ViaSat-3 average, only 9.9pc of households in low- 54 Beidou satellites since 2000, but the constellation of resilient, flexible and income countries had access to the launch date has ramped up in recent agile high-capacity communications internet, compared with 88.5pc in rich years. The initial generation of Beidou s a t e l l i t e s t h a t w i l l i m p r o v e countries. The report found that mobile data satellites were designed as prototypes or responsiveness of current and emergent had been a game-changer for lower income test platforms, but the Chinese network defence mission threats. groups, but access was still too expensive. began limited service over the Asia- On average across the indexed countries, Pacific region in 2012. Sri Lanka ranked the cost of a fixed-line broadband connection amounts to 18.6pc of monthly Chinese officials said the successful second best internet gross national income per-capita — a far launch Monday and a follow-up launch in cry from the 2pc target for entry-level May will complete the deployment of the inclusive country in broadband services set by the United Beidou program's third-generation, or South Asia Nations Broadband Commission for BDS-3, satellite network. All of the early Sustainable Development. Beidou satellites have ended their missions, and the Beidou fleet needs 30 Sri Lanka has been ranked 56th out of satellites for operational global 100 countries on the inclusive internet Beijing to beef up positioning and timing services. index 2020 released by the Economist support for Beidou- Until now, Chinese military forces have Intelligence Unit (EIU). It is the second relied on the U.S. military's Global highest ranking country in South Asian related industry Positioning System for navigation region after India, which is on the 46th support. China designed the Beidou spot. Looking at South Asia, Pakistan The Beijing municipal government has network as an independent version of the ranked the lowest, Bangladesh at 70th China launchedreleased two satellite a for three-year its GPSsystem plan (Source: to promote China Daily the GPS network, providing Chinese military place. innovation and development of industries and civilian users with a home-grown related to the BeiDou Navigation Satellite system in case GPS signals are The EIU report says: Sri Lanka earns System. Beijing will foster breakthroughs in interrupted during a conflict. Like the GPS high marks for the availability of local key and core technologies, and create a network, Russia's Glonass fleet and Internet content and e-government sound ecology for Beidou-related industries E u r o p e ' s G a l i l e o n a v i g a t i o n services, resulting in a ranking of =25th via cultivating competitive enterprises, constellation, the Beidou system is globally (and 6th in Asia) in Relevance. according to the plan. designed for global service. Its performance is less impressive The total output value of the Beidou elsewhere, with glaring weakness in, navigation and location service industry in The Beidou navigation satellite launched among other areas, policy development Beijing will exceed 100 billion yuan (about Monday will use its own propulsion and trust and safety. The 'Inclusive 14.4 billion U.S. dollars) by 2022, it said. system to maneuver into a circular Internet Index' benchmarks countries on Beijing will also build an innovation center geosynchronous orbit more than 22,000 the internet's availability, affordability, for Beidou-related industries with global miles (nearly 36,000 kilometers) over the relevance and the readiness of people to influence and set up a standard application equator. Chinese officials said engineers u s e i t . T h e a n n u a l r e p o r t i s system. “have overcome difficulties during the

30 IN THE NEWS ASIA novel coronavirus epidemic to ensure excessive competition. The three mobile the success of the mission,” according carriers initially launched the 5G service in to state media. limited areas in Seoul.

The Beidou network, named for the Korean operators to Chinese word for the Big Dipper invest US$3.4 billion in Newly released survey constellation, includes satellites positioned in three different types of 5G infrastructure in H1 finds one third of orbits. In December, China launched 2020 Taiwanese online the last of 24 operational satellites into a medium-altitude orbit more than consumers have 13,000 miles above Earth, similar to the South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT accessed streaming orbits used by GPS, Glonass and said that the country's three major telecom Galileo satellites. carriers, SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus, piracy websites or have agreed to invest KRW 4 trillion ($3.4 torrent sites. But unlike the other global navigation billion) in their 5G networks during the first systems, the fully-operational Beidou half of this year, according to Korea Times. network will include six spacecraft in Operators will heavily invest to install A new study of the online content viewing geosynchronous orbits, with three additional 5G equipment with the aim of behaviour of Taiwanese consumers, permanently over the equator and three expanding the coverage of current 5G revealed that 33% of consumers have others in inclined orbits that swing north networks across the country. The accessed streaming piracy websites or and south of the equator during each announcement follows an agreement torrent sites to access premium content 24-hour orbit. between South Korea's Minister of without paying any subscription fees. In Science and ICT Choi Ki-young and the addition, 28% of consumers use a TV box China launched three satellites into management of the three domestic which can be used to stream pirated inclined geosynchronous orbit last operators. television and video content. These TV year, and the spacecraft deployed boxes, also known as Illicit Streaming Monday is the second of three to be The initial new investment had been Devices (ISDs), allow users to access permanently stationed over the initially set at KRW 2.7 trillion, but has been hundreds of pirated television channels and equator. The satellite launched Monday expanded to KRW 4 trillion. The additional video-on-demand content, usually with a was built by the China Academy of investment will be used to deploy 5G low annual subscription fee. TV boxes often Space Technology, part of China's infrastructure in subways, railroads, come pre-loaded with illegal applications government-owned aerospace department stores and universities, allowing 'plug-and-play' access to pirated industry, and is based on the DFH-3B according to the report. As of the end of content. The QBox, UBox and EVPad satellite platform. January, the three operators had deployed remain the most popular illicit streaming approximately 92,000 5G base station devices purchased by consumers. The Beidou satellites “can provide across the country, which represents services for the driverless vehicles, nearly 10% of total LTE base stations in The survey, commissioned by the Asia accurate berthing of ships, as well as South Korea. Video Industry Association's Coalition takeoff and landing of airplanes,” Against Piracy (CAP) and conducted by Xinhua said. “It will be widely used in SK Telecom, the country's largest mobile YouGov, highlights the detrimental effects the fields of communication, electric operator, expects to reach 6-7 million of streaming piracy on legitimate p o w e r , f i n a n c e , m a p p i n g , subscribers in the 5G segment by the end subscription video services. Of the 28% of transportation, fishery, agriculture and of 2020, the company's CFO, Poong- consumers who purchased a TV box used forestry.” The Beidou satellites also Young Yoon, recently said during a to stream pirated television and video have a communications replay ability. conference call with investors. At the end content, half stated that they had cancelled Chinese smartphones already have the of last year, the operator had reached 2.08 all or some of their subscription to legal pay ability to incorporate Beidou navigation million 5G subscribers, the executive said. TV services. data into mapping and tracking apps, Rival operator KT ended 2019 with a total and users in dozens of other countries of 1.42 million subscribers in the 5G In addition to the short-term problem of are also using Beidou signals. segment. The telco experienced a cancelled subscriptions is a longer term slowdown in the adoption of 5G problem – namely, many of the people China wants to expand usage of the subscriptions as net additions during the streaming pirated content are young. The Beidou network worldwide, especially last quarter of the year amounted to survey found that 47% of 18-24 year-olds in countries participating in China's Belt 363,000, down from 636,000 in the third and 61% of 25-34 year-olds used ISDs or and Road Initiative, a global economic quarter. other apps/ services to view infringing d e v e l o p m e n t p r o g r a m a n d a entertainment content. The free streaming centerpiece of Beijing's foreign policy Meanwhile, LG U+ reported that it closed problem is not limited to the low income strategy. The Belt and Road Initiative last year with a total of 1.16 million 5G demographic. On the contrary, the survey has extended to nearly 70 countries in subscribers. The carrier's 5G subscriber found that the usage rate of piracy the Asia-Pacific region, Africa, Europe base increased by 33.1% during the fourth streaming services increased with and the Americas, where China quarter of 2019. household income level (low income group partners with local authorities to fund South Korea claimed to be the first country – 25% mid income group – 35%; high infrastructure and other drivers of in the world to launch full 5G commercial income group – 43% ) economic growth. services on April 3, 2019. 5G coverage in Korea is restricted to urban areas and Neil Gane, the General Manager of AVIA's Pakistan's armed forces, which used to places where there are a large number of C o a l i t i o n A g a i n s t P i r a c y ( C A P ) rely on U.S. GPS satellites, is the only people. commented, “Consumers are funding crime military outside China to employ the The three Korean telcos launched limited groups as well as wasting their money when Beidou network. 5G commercial services in December purchasing illicit streaming devices, when 2018 as part of an agreement with the ICT they find their ISD can no longer access live ministry to launch simultaneously to avoid sports matches or their favourite TV shows.

31 IN THE NEWS ASIA

The global content industry is now positioning technology will deliver more Smart Paddock CEO Darren Wolchyn, collaborating to prevent and disrupt than $6.2 billion in benefits for Australia, said, “we have been searching for a illegal feeds of live sports, TV channels, and more than $1.4 billion in benefits for satellite connectivity solution which would and video-on-demand content through New Zealand, over the next 30 years. facilitate the fastest possible adoption by enforcement against the illicit IPTV “Trial projects have also found the system farmers, no need to build and pay for operators and blocking orders against can make our roads and rail systems much infrastructure and a product which will piracy streaming websites and piracy safer, and can improve the way farmers work anywhere in the world. We expect applications. ISDs can never provide manage their land, crops and livestock. that not only will eSAT deliver anywhere quality programming and a 'service For the resources sector, the technology connectivity with the form factor we guarantee', no matter what the seller can track vehicles and improve site require but at a price which will make it may claim.” surveys to enable precise extraction of easy for farmers to justify their Thomas Ee, the Chairman at Taiwan deposits.” investment.” Broadband Communications also Industry, Science and Technology Minister Rick Somerton, eSAT's Regional Director added, “The damage that online piracy Karen Andrews said the project will commented “There are enormous does to the Taiwan creative industry is complement Australia's other investments benefits to Australian and International without dispute and the results of this in space to drive economic growth and farmers and ranchers from the delivery of latest survey are alarming. With the create new jobs. 24*7 connect smart tags.” and he further s u p p o r t f r o m t h e Ta i w a n e s e “The Morrison Government is backing commented “Smart Paddock is a pioneer government, our industry must continue these types of technologies because of the in the development of smart tags and in to work together closely to do more to positive impact they have on the lives of the delivery of information to users and we protect intellectual property and to work everyday Australians — from the are pleased to be working with them to even harder to stamp out ISDs and discoveries that make life easier through to help Australian Farmers realise the streaming piracy in Taiwan.” growing industries that create high-value benefits to their industry.” In 2018 Meat jobs,” Minister Andrews said. and Livestock Australia estimated that the Australia-NZ commit to “Many industries stand to benefit from this benefits of smart tags could be over $9 technology. It could help improve safety billion to the industry. This is over and develop SBAS by 2023 and efficiency in aviation and shipping and beyond the bio security benefits of being will be crucial to the development of able to trace and track every animal. Australia and New Zealand are autonomous vehicles. Smart Paddock and eSAT believe that partnering to roll out satellite technology “This work also supports our government's similar benefits will be available to many of that will be able to pinpoint a location on broader commitment to triple the size of the world's 3 billion sheep and cows. Earth to within 10 centimeters, the space sector to $12 billion and an extra unlocking more than $7.5 billion in 20,000 new jobs by 2030. benefits for industries in both countries. PCBL selects ATEME for Prime Minister Scott Morrison and New eSAT Global and Smart downlinking of Z e a l a n d ' s P r i m e M i n i s t e r Paddock to address $9 television content JacindaArdern committed jointly to throughout the Pacific i m p l e m e n t a s a t e l l i t e - b a s e d billion Meat and augmentation system (SBAS), to operate across Australia and New Livestock opportunity ATEME, the leader in video delivery Zealand, at the Australia-New Zealand solutions for Broadcast, Cable TV, DTH, leaders' meeting held Feb. 28. eSAT Global, Inc. announces its IPTV and OTT, has announced that it has The system will improve the accuracy of partnership with Smart Paddock, creator of provided Kyrion DR5000 Integrated GPS and other positioning services the “Bluebell” multisensory livestock tag. Receiver Decoders(IRDs) to Pacific from the current five to 10 meters to as Together they will seek to provide over $9 Cooperation Broadcasting Limited little as 10 centimeters across Australia billion in benefits to the Meat and Livestock (PCBL), a New Zealand Government and New Zealand without the need for industry. initiative that supports Pacific free-to-air mobile or internet coverage. broadcasters through the delivery of New The initial phase of the project will result in Z e a l a n d - o r i g i n a t e d c o n t e n t f o r The new project follows 18 months of large scale field trials of eSAT's rebroadcast, and the provision of training successful trials that tested 27 projects miniaturized, direct-to-GEO-satellite to encourage the production of local across a range of industries. It will be communication modules integrated with content. delivered by Geoscience Australia and the Bluebell Tags. These trials represent a Land Information New Zealand under new stage of the development for the PCBL opted for 52 DR5000 IRDs for its the joint science research and Bluebell Tags, they are expected to be easy setup; fast signal lock; and industry innovation treaty. begin by Q4 of 2020 and lead to global leading RF robustness. A future-proof Minister for Resources, Water and availability in 2021. solution, the ATEME IRDs provide support Northern Australia Keith Pitt said the for HEVC, in addition to 10-bit 4:2:2, SD, project, to be operating by 2023, will Mandated traceability of Cattle in Australia HD, UHD, MPEG2 and H264 to be have significant benefits to a range of is about to move into the next phase. installed into the 25 downlink locations. industry sectors including mining, Passive identification will be usurped by The Kyrion solution provides PCBL and its agriculture and transport. real-time tracking, health reporting, theft regional partners - which covers protection, enhanced biosecurity and approximately 20% of the Earth's surface - “We welcome New Zealand's identification. Livestock will now be able to with unmatched reliability and video commitment to join Australia in rolling be traced on and off the farm and live quality. out this exciting new technology, which exports will be able to be monitored all the Professionalism, ease of use, and will deliver substantial economic way to their final destination. eSat and reliability both in terms of the product itself benefits for both countries,” Minister Pitt Smart Paddock are targeting extended and ATEME's ability to deliver according to said. device & battery life to meet the the project's tight schedule were key “An independent analysis by Ernst and demanding requirements of Australia's factors in PCBL's decision making. Young (EY) has found improved biosecurity regime. ATEME is recognised worldwide as a

32 IN THE NEWS ASIA

trusted long-term partner who can assist East and West African coasts. opportunity to develop local capability in c u s t o m e r s l i k e P C B L i n t h e technical construction and facility implementation of its current and future Kleos' Scouting Mission satellites will maintenance. This is the second vision. detect and geolocate maritime radio commercial satellite ground infrastructure frequency transmissions to provide project CfAT has been able to secure for “Some of our clients are in remote parts of global activity-based intelligence their Alice Springs site. the world, including Kiribati, Solomon irrespective of the presence of positioning Islands, The Kingdom of Tonga, and Niue. systems, in spite of unclear imagery and if The GeoTracker will consist of multiple Support and service are obviously hard to targets are out of patrol range. These instruments which will be encased in a come by quickly in these places, so the initial satellites form the foundation of a three-metre tall clamshell observatory DR5000's robustness and user-friendly larger constellation that will deliver near dome. The structure will complement the operation were key to our decision,” said real-time intelligence over key regions of existing Geoscience Australia satellite Natasha Meleisea, Chief Executive of maritime interest. ground station and the recently announced PBCL. “With many of our broadcast Real Time Earth satellite ground station - a partners spread across the Pacific, being CEO of Kleos Space, Andy Bowyer said, commercial venture between Viasat and able to roll out the decoders and configure “The launch of our Scouting Mission CfAT Satellite Enterprises. them on site via USB proved to be another satellites from Chennai is imminent. Our h u g e a d v a n t a g e . T h e e a s e o f combined team is undertaking final The space industry is really starting to take configuration, coupled with the skill of the preparations for our satellites to be off in the Territory with Equatorial Launch onsite team, saw our fastest installation integrated with the PSLV launch vehicle. Australia recently starting construction on completed within 15 minutes.” Following launch, spacecraft operation the Arnhem Space Centre, with the first engineers will guide the satellites from launch from the facility anticipated this “ATEME was always confident in meeting launch vehicle separation until they are year. Chief Minister Michael Gunner: “The PCBL's exacting timelines and technical established in their final orbit. This is an Territory Labor Government is doing requirements,” said Will Munkara-Kerr, important milestone for Kleos as it will everything it can to create jobs for locals - Country Manager for ATEME Australia and enable us to commence data delivery and we'll even reach for the stars. New Zealand. “We are delighted to have revenue generation from early adopter been a part of PCBL's ambitious vision, contracts”. and now that the initial phases have been China's polar-observing successfully deployed, we are looking satellite completes forward to continuing our close Reaching to the stars to relationship as that vision expands.” create northern territory Antarctic mission jobs China's first polar-observing satellite has KleosFinalises launch completed its Antarctic observation preparations at launch mission after orbiting Earth for six months. An agreement between a European Since it was launched on Sept. 12, 2019, site aerospace company and an Indigenous- the satellite called "Ice Pathfinder" (Code: Kleos Space S.A advises that the mission controlled company based in Central BNU-1) has sent back more than 1,000 t e a m w i l l b e t r a v e l l i n g t o t h e Australia is cementing the Northern images covering the south polar region, SatishDhawan Space Centre in Chennai, Territory's position in the trillion-dollar according to a statement by its operation India from the 18th March, to carry out the global space industry. European space team. final preparation steps prior to launch. launch company, ArianeGroup, has Kleos eagerly awaits the Indian Space announced Centre for Appropriate It has observed two vast ice collapses in Research Organisation (ISRO), the Technology (CfAT), located 10km south the continent, one occurred on the Amery launch provider, publicly announcing the of the Alice Springs CBD, will host their Ice Shelf on Sept. 25, 2019, and the other upcoming launch date. GEOTracker® station at their premises. on the Pine Island Glacier in February this Alice Springs is perfectly positioned to year. The satellite has provided continuous The Kleos team will start travelling to the provide the clear skies required to monitoring of these ice calving events, launch site on the 18th March to carry out operate ArianeGroup technology, which obtaining key satellite imagery and data, final preparation over a period of will automatically track satellites using an said the operation team leader Chen approximately six days prior to handing optical telescope. Zhuoqi, also an associate professor of the Kleos' nanosatellites over to New Space School of Geospatial Engineering and India (NSIL) for integration with the launch The Territory Labor Government actively Science under the Sun Yat-sen University vehicle. The preparation activities include facilitated the connection between CfAT in Guangzhou. carrying out spacecraft checkout, battery and the ArianeGroup, demonstrating how charging, fuelling, setting the final it is effectively positioning the Territory in a Scientists of the satellite project have spacecraft flight configuration and highly competitive international space participated in the country's ongoing 36th overseeing the dispenser integration. industry to attract private investment, and Antarctic expedition. Apart from data develop new and exciting industries. acquisition of ground features near Kleos' Scouting Mission satellites will Currently, 23 local jobs are supported research base Zhongshan Station, they launch from the SatishDhawan Space through CfAT, with this project further also used drone technology to do remote Centre aboard PSLV C49, a rideshare supporting these and future roles sensing research, to support "satellite- mission conducted by the Indian Space through:CfAT developing the site; drone-ground" synchronous scientific Research Organisation (ISRO) and Procuring the observatory dome; experiments in the Antarctic. f e a t u r i n g s a t e l l i t e s f r o m o t h e r Installing the equipment; Providing the Its data will also be used to study global organisations including Spire Global. internet connection; and Facilities climate changes and develop Arctic Kleos' satellites will launch into a 37- maintenance and hosting management\ shipping routes, according to Cheng Xiao, degree inclination orbit, providing lead scientist of the project. In the past, unprecedented situational awareness The majority of CfAT employees are Chinese scientists conducted polar over crucial shipping regions including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and studies mainly based on data collected by Strait of Hormuz, South China Sea and the company will leverage this vessels and research stations. The use of

33 IN THE NEWS ASIA remote sensing satellite technology will the country's telecoms community and enterprise," added Joe Dodd, Vice enable them to monitor and obtain TIP members to validate and test President of Corporate Development, imagery and data of difficult-to-access interoperability of the project's services LinQuest. areas. against operator requirements, TIP said " in a statement. "The Ice Pathfinder will rectify China's lack AttilioZani, executive director, said Kacific1 Broadband of polar observation data and reduce the because the lab is not hosted by any Services commence country's dependence on imports of the individual organisation, feedback can be technology," Cheng said. disseminated around the region and across Asia Pacific The polar-observing satellite, with a world. design life of about one year, weighs only He noted while the cost reductions Kacific1, Kacific Broadband Satellites 16 kg. It was initiated by scientists from the through the collaboration can be Group's first communications satellite, Beijing Normal University and developed significant, ranging from between 15 per has entered commercial service and is by Shenzhen Aerospace Dongfanghong cent and 20 per cent to as high as 40 per ready to support customers across Asia Development Ltd. cent, it is important to look at the speed to Pacific. Designed and manufactured by service and the flexibility in the network. Boeing, Kacific1 is a high-throughput, ka- It is equipped with high-resolution band satellite which successfully cameras that can achieve full coverage of launched on 16 December 2019 from the Antarctic and Arctic in five days. It also LinQuest Engaged by Cape Canaveral, Florida. The payload has an automatic identification system for Downer Group to and bus platform have been thoroughly vessels to navigate through parts or the tested and all 56 spot beams are now entirety of polar regions. Support Satellite operating with full capability from the 150E orbital position. The operation team will soon release the Communications for Antarctic data to support Chinese and the Australian Defence “From the early design and through the international polar research, and the construction phases, we knew that satellite is going to start its first Arctic Force Kacific-1 would provide the Asia-Pacific observation mission. region with cost-effective technology to LinQuest Corporation announced today transform lives and businesses with the Indosat plans first it has been engaged by the Downer best broadband available to remote Group, the leading provider of integrated areas. Now with the in-orbit tests OpenRAN tests in Asia services in Australia and New Zealand, completed, we can realize this huge for its satellite engineering and potential.” said Bob Perpall, Chief acquisition specialist expertise to Technology Officer, Kacific. IndosatOoredoo detailed plans to support the Australian Defence Satellite collaborate with the Telecom Infra Project Communications (SATCOM) System (TIP) and GSMA to run the first field trials “In the two months since launch, we've (ASDSS) project. ASDSS is a 10-year rolled out over a hundred trial sites across on OpenRAN technology in Asia, with the program to develop sovereign SATCOM- goal of lowering the cost of providing Asia Pacific and are extremely pleased based capability enabling command and with the technology's performance. internet service, particularly to rural areas. control of Australian Joint Task Forces The operator plans to start the trials this When we put up the initial carriers and through resilient and responsive saw the performance we were getting on month, with one test to be carried out at a communications. universal service obligation (USO) base that first terminal, we knew then that we had something wonderful to offer station site located in one of the least- “For decades, LinQuest engineers have developed regions of Indonesia. With the people.” Kacific engineers are upskilling s u p p o r t e d U . S . c u s t o m e r s o n local engineers in the installation and support of the GSMA, it is evaluating international joint programs to ensure potential sites. maintenance of the satellite ground interoperability at the system and technology. The rapid rollout will continue mission levels. We are honored to have Vikram Sinha, director and COO of in coming months connecting both new been selected by Downer to extend our end users and those being transferred IndosatOoredoo, told Mobile World Live domestic expertise in offering direct standardising the design and functionality from the provisional Ku-band network to support to Australia's future SATCOM Kacific1's Ka-band services. of hardware and software reduces the cost enterprise” of providing internet and voice services, which will help drive digital growth in the Downer has partnered with LinQuest to Nokia partners with country. leverage its decades of experience China Mobile to deliver serving as the systems engineering and He said its collaboration with TIP will help it integration (SE&I) prime contractor to the IoT-based highway get its cost structure right. “There are U.S. Space Force's military SATCOM islands in Indonesia where we need to enterprise. LinQuest will provide landslide alert platform make sure the internet is available and acquisition and systems engineering affordable to everyone.” services to augment the existing Nokia has announced, in partnership with N e u t r a l l a b Australian space industry SATCOM China Mobile/CMCC Guangxi, that it is Indosat Ooredoo also committed to capability. delivering a landslide monitoring and working with the wider industry in "For decades, LinQuest engineers have early warning system for highways Indonesia to set up the first TIP s u p p o r t e d U . S . c u s t o m e r s o n operations management company, Community Lab in Southeast Asia over the international joint programs to ensure BGIGC Group (Guangxi Beibu Gulf next three to six months. The aim is to build interoperability at the system and Investment Group Co. Ltd). Deployed on a local ecosystem which can support the mission levels. We are honored to have the G75 Lanzhou–Haikou Expressway, development and deployment of been selected by Downer to extend our one of the main highways in Guangxi innovative and cost-effective platforms for domestic expertise in offering direct province, the system has already Indonesian operators. support to Australia's future SATCOM undergone extensive trials during which it The lab will be a neutral host platform for

34 IN THE NEWS ASIA

successfully prevented adverse impact Australian rocket company, Valiant China's Xichang Satellite Launch Center to road users following a landslip in Space, has successfully fired the first announced the development of a new March 2019. commercially developed liquid fuelled positioning system that can greatly Mr Yang Jirong, enterprise applications rocket engine in Australian history. shorten the time searching for rocket expert at CMCC Guangxi, said: debris. The system has proved efficient in “Immediately upon deployment, the On 15 March, 2020, the “Momentum” seeking out fallen rocket pieces after the Nokia IoT solution demonstrated the engine ignited for the first time, signifying center launched the 54th BeiDou satellite value it can deliver. As a leading operator, a major milestone for Valiant Space. This into space on March 9. The satellite was we are highly committed to enhancing comes after over a year of successful sent into space by a Long March-3B expressway safety for all road users with system integration and inert propellant carrier rocket. With the guidance of the 5G technology and this project is a major testing, and is the start of an even bigger system, the center staff just spent 25 step forward in that goal.” testing campaign. Valiant Space CEO, minutes finding the rocket boosters, while Using the system, expressway Mr Andrew Uscinski, said “…the test in the past, it would take them several management receives real-time reports couldn't have come at a better time. We hours or even half a month to complete on changes in ground conditions and are really excited about our next phase of such a task. incline stability across highway slopes. development”. Upon indications of a potential landslide, The Brisbane based company is Unlike many countries' launch pads, the system immediately notifies highway d e v e l o p i n g r o c k e t p r o p u l s i o n which are typically located along management personnel by SMS or technologies to help propel the next coastlines, China's major launch sites are phone call, enabling appropriate action to generation of spacecraft to and from the deep inland, which means its rockets be taken. A 4G eye-camera deployed on surface of the Moon. Following this test, always fly directly over densely populated the highway slope simultaneously Valiant Space will be integrating the areas. Therefore, after launches, rocket monitors landslide status for staff engine into an Earth-based rocket that boosters and other pieces will fall back to members. will simulate lunar descent, landing, and t h e g r o u n d , t h r e a t e n i n g l o c a l traversing manoeuvres. “This is a key communities. Cheng Gang, Executive Vice President component in our plans to deliver of Nokia Shanghai Bell said: “This is an commercial and scientific payloads to This year the country will continue to see outstanding example of the benefits the unique locations on the Moon and to intensive space launches. How to make Internet of Things can deliver to improve bring them back,” said Valiant Space the rocket debris recovery precise and public safety. Nokia is working with the COO, Mr. Bryan Greenham. controllable has become an urgent world's leading manufacturers to develop problem for Chinese scientists. high-precision sensors and algorithms This live firing was performed at Beyond for industrial applications that can deliver the Blue Aerospace's launch and test According to Yao Shengsheng, head of all the cost-competitive benefits of easily facility, Funny Farm Space, north of the system development team, after the deployed, low-power, wide-area network Goondiwindi, QLD. Beyond the Blue rocket boosters were separated on March technology. Aerospace representative and CEO of 9 in the latest BeiDou satellite launch Black Sky Aerospace, Mr Blake Nikolic, mission, equipment in the center “We're pleased that our system showed said “The times remain challenging for immediately received the boosters' falling its worth during trials. At Nokia we believe farmers in remote areas and our facility is trajectory data. The system then quickly that with the advent of 5G we can apply creating diversification, driving economic calculated and located the drop point. our IoT, analytics and wireless expertise benefit for the region”. Funny Farm "It was the first time the system realized to even more solutions that enhance Space has become known for advancing real-time data reception, processing and levels of citizen care, well-being and Australia's space presence, just last display of rocket debris in a mission," Yao security.”The landslide monitoring and month hosting Australia's first private said. alarm system is based on the Nokia international sounding rocket campaign " IMPACT IoT platform, comprising end-to- with the UK. The facility will also be Huawei Pakistan end Nokia hardware (Edge+ gateway instrumental when Valiant Space and sensor nodes) and software. commences flight-testing. provides video

Implementation of expressway slope Black Sky Aerospace, known for their conference system to safety evaluation, using monitoring and own rocket launch vehicles and space MNHS, R&C to fight early warning systems, is one of the main technology, provided logistical support, objectives of the Ministry of Transport's local expertise and independent COVID-19 13th Five Year Plan, and will make a evaluation to ensure the test was major contribution to road safety. compliant with regulatory and safety Huawei Pakistan has donated a video It is of social and economic importance to factors. Mr Nikolic continued “Black Sky conference system worth about 300,000 establish an effective highway slope Aerospace is actively supporting U.S. dollars to the Ministry of National monitoring network, capable of sovereign manufactured, leapfrog Health Services (MNHS), Regulations assessing geological and environmental research and development to strengthen and Coordination of Pakistan to help the parameters in real time to accurately Australia's role in providing access to country fight against COVID-19. predict and prevent possible disasters. space.” This system can connect the World Health Organization Pakistan Office, the government departments and all the Successful firing of the emergency control centers for COVID-19 first commercial liquid China develops new across Pakistan. system to quickly find fuelled rocket in The technological structure of the system Australia fallen rocket debris i s a m u l t i - s c e n a r i o i n t e l l i g e n t collaboration solution based on 4K video IN THE NEWS ASIA

technologies and the system can be In 2020, Luokung expects to generate Territory's position in the trillion-dollar applied in several situations such as approximately USD 10 million revenue global space industry. epidemic prevention and control command, related to the PaaS, SaaS, and DaaS remote consultation and remote services provided by Luokung's European space launch company, monitoring, according to Huawei. SuperScylla data service platform to ArianeGroup, has today announced Addressing the donation ceremony, Dianyu and its customers. Centre for Appropriate Technology Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on (CfAT), located 10km south of the Alice Health Dr.Zafar Mirza thanked Huawei for As a strategic partner, Dianyu will be S p r i n g s C B D , w i l l h o s t t h e i r its support to Pakistan's efforts in granted a seat in the Strategic GEOTracker® station at their premises. preventing and controlling the spread of the Committee of Luokung, and will provide Alice Springs is perfectly positioned to disease. strategic decision support for Luokung. provide the clear skies required to operate ArianeGroup technology, which “This is a difficult time for the country, and will automatically track satellites using we would like Huawei to be a partner with LinQuest partners an optical telescope. us, just as China and Pakistan are best Australia's Downer partners,” Dr.Zafar Mirza said, adding that The Territory Labor Government actively he hopes Huawei can cooperate with the Group to support facilitated the connection between CfAT health ministry on telemedicine in the satellite and the ArianeGroup, demonstrating future. how it is effectively positioning the Huawei Pakistan CEO Meng Qiang communications Territory in a highly competitive expressed the company's willingness to international space industry to attract support Pakistan in fighting against LinQuest Corporation has been private investment, and develop new COVID-19, adding that Huawei's engaged by Downer Group, the leading and exciting industries. operations in Pakistan are continuing as provider of integrated services in usual due to the strict precautionary Australia and New Zealand, for its The majority of CfAT employees are measures that the company has taken and satellite engineering and acquisition Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and specialist expertise to support the Huawei will try its best to work with its the company will leverage this opportunity A u s t r a l i a n D e f e n c e S a t e l l i t e clients in Pakistan to guarantee the network to develop local capability in technical operation in this critical time. Communications (SATCOM) System construction and facility maintenance. The offices of the World Health (ASDSS) project. ASDSS is a ten-year This is the second commercial satellite Organization Pakistan Office, the National program to develop sovereign Institute of Health of Pakistan and the SATCOM-based capability enabling ground infrastructure project CfAT has been health ministry have already been command and control of Australian Joint able to secure for their Alice Springs site. connected by the system, Huawei said, Task Forces through resilient and The GeoTracker will consist of multiple adding that six additional locations responsive communications. instruments which will be encased in a including all the emergency control centers three-metre tall clamshell observatory for COVID-19 across Pakistan will also be Downer has partnered with LinQuest to dome. The structure will complement the connected. leverage its decades of experience existing Geoscience Australia satellite serving as the systems engineering and ground station and the recently announced integration (SE&I) prime contractor to Luokung Enters into the U.S. Space Force's military Real Time Earth satellite ground station - a Strategic Partnership SATCOM enterprise. LinQuest will commercial venture between Viasat and provide acquisition and systems CfAT Satellite Enterprises. with Dianyu engineering services to augment the existing Australian space industry The space industry is really starting to take Luokung Technology Corp. announced it SATCOM capability. off in the Territory with Equatorial Launch has entered into a strategic partnership Australia recently starting construction on with Jiangsu Dianyu Information "For decades, LinQuest engineers have the Arnhem Space Centre, with the first Technology Co., Ltd. ("Dianyu"), to supported U.S. customers on launch from the facility anticipated this leverage each other's respective international joint programs to ensure year. advantages, and to actively expand mobile interoperability at the system and commercial big data services in the 5G era. mission levels. We are honored to have China's polar- The two parties have signed and started been selected by Downer to extend our observing satellite implementation of a series of cooperation domestic expertise in offering direct agreements on certain projects and support to Australia's future SATCOM completes Antarctic services. enterprise," added Joe Dodd, Vice President of Corporate Development, mission Dianyu will rely on the SuperScylla data LinQuest. " China's first polar-observing satellite processing service platform of Luokung to has completed its Antarctic observation integrate vector maps, satellite remote mission after orbiting Earth for six sensing images, IoT streaming data and Reaching to the stars months. Since it was launched on Sept. other multi-format data services in order to to create Northern 12, 2019, the satellite called "Ice actively expand the applications and Pathfinder" (Code: BNU-1) has sent services using dynamic trajectories in IoT territory jobs back more than 1,000 images covering and LBS. In the meantime, the marketing An agreement between a European the south polar region, according to a capabilities of Dianyu and the excellent aerospace company and an Indigenous- statement by its operation team Friday. solution service capabilities of its SaaS controlled company based in Central It has observed two vast ice collapses in platform and programs like "Dianke", will Australia is cementing the Northern the continent, one occurred on the bring more projects and users to Luokung. IN THE NEWS ASIA

Amery Ice Shelf on Sept. 25, 2019, and the “Asia continues to be a growth engine for robots developed by Guangzhou other on the Pine Island Glacier in Telenor Group. The development of the Gosuncn Robot Co.,Ltd using Advantech February this year. The satellite has region has led to increasingly similar technology to monitor mask wearing and provided continuous monitoring of these maturity levels across the markets, which body temperatures in public places. ice calving events, obtaining key satellite has diminished many of the differences imagery and data, said the operation team between our two clusters. By uniting Following the outbreak of COVID-19, the leader Chen Zhuoqi, also an associate these markets into a single, Asia unit and Guangzhou Gosuncn Robot Co.,Ltd, a professor of the School of Geospatial building a stronger Asia presence, we are leading provider of smart city IoT Engineering and Science under the Sun well-equipped to fully realise the products and services, upgraded its 5G- Yat-sen University in Guangzhou. potential across the region and seize powered police patrol robot with new opportunities for growth,” said Sigve capabilities to assist first-line police Scientists of the satellite project have Brekke, president and CEO, Telenor officers in conducting disease prevention participated in the country's ongoing 36th Group. inspections. Antarctic expedition. Apart from data acquisition of ground features near The new Asian business unit will be Because the manual measurement of research base Zhongshan Station, they headed up by Jorgen C Arentz Rostup, body temperature exposes public safety also used drone technology to do remote who will take up the reins with effect of the personnel to potential health risks, these sensing research, to support "satellite- 1st of May 2020. robots are equipped with 5 high- drone-ground" synchronous scientific Albern Murty and Irfan Khan will continue resolution cameras and infrared experiments in the Antarctic. in their roles as CEOs of Malaysia and thermometers capable of scanning the Its data will also be used to study global Pakistan, respectively. temperature of 10 people simultaneously climate changes and develop Arctic “ within a radius of 5 meters. If a high shipping routes, according to Cheng Xiao, temperature or the absence of a mask is lead scientist of the project. Tenth Navy orders detected, the robots send an alert to the relevant authorities. All data can be In the past, Chinese scientists conducted orbit's maritime satcom transmitted to a centralized control center polar studies mainly based on data terminals english for real-time situational response and collected by vessels and research decision making. Moreover, although stations. The use of remote sensing these robots are self-driving machines, Orbit Communications Systems Ltd. satellite technology will enable them to they can also be controlled remotely, announced a new US$2.7 million monitor and obtain imagery and data of thereby saving manpower by reducing contract with a major Asian Navy for a difficult-to-access areas. "The Ice patrolling responsibilities and preventing combination of OceanTRx 4 and Pathfinder will rectify China's lack of polar cross-infection. It's no surprise then that OceanTRx 7 maritime satcom terminals, observation data and reduce the country's these next-generation 5G patrol robots and associated spares. dependence on imports of the technology," have already been spotted at airports and This order represents the tenth Navy to Cheng said. shopping malls in the cities of select Orbit's OceanTRx product line, The polar-observing satellite, with a design Guangzhou, Shanghai, Xi'an, and and the fourth in the last nine months. life of about one year, weighs only 16 kg. It Guiyang. Since its introduction in 2015, OceanTRx was initiated by scientists from the Beijing has become the leading terminal in the Normal University and developed by 5G Patrol Robots Equipped with large cruise ship segment, a top choice Shenzhen Aerospace Dongfanghong Advantech's MIC-770 Edge Computer for offshore platforms and critical data Development Ltd. Gosuncn's 5G patrol robots integrate IoT, links, and now the growing choice for AI, cloud computing, and big data Navy applications. It is equipped with high-resolution cameras technologies to conduct environmental that can achieve full coverage of the sensing, dynamic decision-making, "The proven performance and reliability Antarctic and Arctic in five days. It also has autonomous motion control, as well as of OceanTRx, along with a range of an automatic identification system for behavioral sensing and interaction. To antenna sizes and configurations, have vessels to navigate through parts or the enable such advanced computing, 5G been key differentiators in all of our entirety of polar regions. patrol robots are powered by a high- recent Navy orders," noted Orbit CEO The operation team will soon release the performance industrial edge computer Dany Eshchar. "In this case the Navy Antarctic data to support Chinese and (MIC-770) equipped with an 8th gen selected different antenna sizes to meet international polar research, and the Intel® Core™ i processor and GPU mission requirements of across a wide satellite is going to start its first Arctic iModule (MIC-75G20) aimed at IoT range of vessels, with the added benefit observation mission. applications. of common operations and shared spare

parts." Telenor to consolidate its Industrial-Grade Design for Reliable AI Training and Inference Asian subsidiaries under Smart 5G patrol robots Developed by Advantech, a leading provider of high-performance industrial single business unit equipped with computing solutions, the MIC-770 Advantech's MIC-770 industrial-grade edge computer Telenor has revealed that it will combine its combined with MIC-75G20 GPU iModule Asian business units into one single entity, edge computer provide a high-performance system for AI in an attempt to strengthen its presence deployed to fight training and inference. To withstand 24/7 across the continent. Telenor has 176 operation under extreme conditions, the million subscribers spread across its Asian Coronavirus MIC-770's ruggedized chassis and cast operations, with a key presence in aluminum heatsink protect against Pakistan and Myanmar. As part of its effort to contain the spread vibration and shock, the passive thermal of COVID-19, China is using 5G patrol IN THE NEWS ASIA

solution ensures silent operation, and all average monthly download limits on retail electronic components satisfy industrial plans offered to many of their customers. Last year, emergency deployments standards for environmental protection, For an RSP's standard nbn™ Sky included sending teams to set up EMI/ESD tolerance, and high-voltage Muster™ services, nbn is increasing communication centres for NGOs and surge requirements (2KV). Meanwhile, the average wholesale download limits to local populations in the Bahamas, MIC-75G20 GPU iModule supports 90GB* of data on average depending on Mozambique and the Philippines. PCIe/PCI I/F add-on cards, such as frame the services that the RSP has ordered Cyclone Idai hit Mozambique's coastal grabber, GPU, and mot from nbn. This offer is an effort to support region last March, causing more than ion control cards, in addition to the anticipated higher volumes of traffic as 1,000 deaths and leaving 1.85 million mainstream GPU cards (with active people work from home and conduct people in need of humanitarian support. cooling), and reserves an additional schooling remotely.Enhancements to Less than six weeks later, another 12VDC of power from the onboard nbn™ Sky Muster™ Plus powerful cyclone – Kenneth – battered connector for cards that require additional the coast 1,000km to the north. power. Overall, the high-performance Available from 1 April on an ongoing basis, computing power of Advantech's MIC- enhancements for nbn™ Sky Muster™ Communities destroyed 770+MIC-75G20 solution can be widely Plus plans will include an expansion of Last September, the Bahamas was in the applied in urban security, smart unmetered content. Once these path of Hurricane Dorian, the most equipment, autonomous vehicles, AI enhancements take effect, all traffic on powerful storm to hit the region since inference servers, high-end medical or nbn™ Sky Muster Plus plans will be records began. The Category 5 tropical security inspection equipment, and unmetered, except for video streaming cyclone destroyed entire communities machine vision solutions to enable diverse and traffic via a VPN, both of which will and left 70,000 people in need of food industrial automation applications. continue to be metered. and shelter. Then in December, the Bicol region of the Philippines was struck by nbn increases Sky Unmetered activities currently include Typhoon Kammuri. web browsing, email and operating Muster™ data system updates. However, as part of Often the first NGO on the ground when allowances, enhances these further enhancements, common natural disasters occur, TSF uses social media applications such as Skype Inmarsat Global Xpress and BGAN Sky Muster™ Plus and Facetime will also be unmetered. satellite broadband services to set up These are just a few examples of where fast, reliable communication links for aid customers can now have additional peace agencies and national governments NBN Co has unveiled new measures to of mind that staying in touch with family, support increasing capacity and data coordinating relief efforts, as well as friends and colleagues will not count as offering victims free satellite phone calls. demand for nbn satellite services in part of their monthly data allowance regional and remote Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout 2019 TSF also continued to Customers on standard nbn™ Sky support hospitals in Syria, humanitarian Muster™ services will have their data China launches new agencies working with migrants in the download limits increased significantly, remote sensing Balkans and Central America, and while for customers on nbn™ Sky education programmes for child Muster™ Plus services, nbn will satellites refugees. implement an increased range of China successfully sent a group of new applications that will not count towards remote sensing satellites into orbit from Digital divide monthly data quotas. the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in The organisation helped bridge the digital Both standard nbn™ Sky Muster™ and southwest China's Sichuan Province. divide by giving remote communities in nbn™ Sky Muster ™ Plus services provide Belonging to the Yaogan-30 family, this Madagascar and Burkina Faso access to access to fast and accessible broadband group of satellites was launched by a digital tools and connectivity, and ran across regional and remote Australia. With Long March-2C carrier rocket. The crisis communication training sessions standard nbn™ Sky Muster™ plans, all satellites have entered the planned orbits around the world for the benefit of data is metered and customers have a set and will be used for electromagnetic international NGOs, government amount of data each month. Currently, environment detection and related agencies and the United Nations. nbn™ Sky Muster™ Plus plans provide technological tests. Last year also saw the end of the UK unmetered data for a select range of Space Agency International Partnership essential online activities. Programme in the Philippines. In the TSF's year on the three-year project, TSF and Inmarsat nbn is offering these new measures to frontline of disaster built local operational capacity dedicated support retail service providers (RSPs) in to saving lives through improved disaster passing on these benefits to their response response. Government personnel are customers. nbn™ Sky Muster™ data now trained to deploy six emergency download limits significantly increased Emergency telecommunications agency satellite communication kits. Effective from 31 March for a limited period Télécoms Sans Frontières (TSF) was Inmarsat Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of up to three months, nbn will increase the active in 13 countries across four Alison Horrocks said: “This year we will download data limits that apply to RSPs for continents in 2019, helping over 630,000 mark 20 years of partnership with TSF. the standard nbn™ Sky Muster™ service, vulnerable people. The Inmarsat- This is a truly important relationship for providing an additional 45GB* for each sponsored NGO details its global us, and the admiration we have for the standard nbn™ Sky Muster™ service at activities in its newly-published annual work their telecoms experts do in bringing no additional cost to those RSPs. report, which includes responding to four life-saving communications to those who major natural disasters and providing need them most in the most challenging This additional 45GB will allow RSPs, in assistance during complex humanitarian environments imaginable remains some cases, to effectively double the crises. undimmed.” IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

Airbus introduces SES, Telesat respond future gallery at the National Air and Space Museum. This comes one year pioneer hybrid base to FCC adoption of C- after HawkEye 360's Pathfinder station for Tetra and LTE satellites were formally commissioned band report and order into service to geolocate RF signals. "It's an incredible honor for the Airbus has introduced its brand new TB4 SES and Telesat, as founding members base station for the first time in the Middle Smithsonian to select our Pathfinder of the C Band Alliance has congratulated satellites for its collection," said John East North Africa (MENA) region. TB4, the Chairman AjitPai and the Commission very latest innovation in the evolution of Serafini, Chief Executive Officer, on the adoption of the C-band Report HawkEye 360. "Small satellites are Tetra towards 4G/5G technology, and the and Order. This momentous decision is first hybrid base station that supports both changing what we can achieve in space, a win-win-win for U.S. leadership in 5G, and we're excited to be on the cutting Tetra and 4G/5G technology on the same American taxpayers, and the nearly 120 hardware platform, is being used by the edge of that revolution. We hope that our million US households that rely on the C- satellites inspire the next generation of Professional Communication Corperation band for their cable and broadcast – Nedaa, Dubai's Government security talented minds." programming. HawkEye 360's cluster of three networks provider; the first customers for this solution. satellites has successfully geolocated SES and Telesat look forward to over 11 million RF signals in the past reviewing the Commission's order in year. This data enables a safer world by Small scale, and fully adaptable, the new detail and working with the FCC and all Tetra base station carries all the same supporting many applications, such as stakeholders to accomplish an efficient finding dark ships that may be engaged powerful features as the popular Tetra TB3 and expeditious transition of the C-band base station, and much more. These in smuggling or illegal fishing. while protecting critical satellite "The Pathfinder is an excellent features include dual homing, air-interface services. encryption, and base station fallback. The representation of how small satellites smaller-scale base station is fully are transforming the space industry," compatible with its previous version. It sets Quicklink to debut said James David, curator in the Space a clear path from Tetra towards 4G/5G use Skype-in-a-box at NAB History Division at the National Air and since the high-tech system module Space Museum. "We look forward to supports both Tetra and LTE access. In 2020 displaying this commercial RF signals addition to features such as an Air- satellite, a first-of-its-kind, to help tell the Interface Encryption, a type 1 handover, At NAB 2020, Quicklink will debuting story of the space age." The Pathfinder and base station fallback, it provides their Skype-in-a-box, the broadcast satellite is scheduled to go on display advanced security capabilities. quality Skype video calling solution. The when the National Air and Space The TB4 also provides the very latest solution enables users to connect to any Museum's renovation is completed, technology from cellular network global broadcaster in studio-grade slated for 2025. The Smithsonian is the solutions, such as the integration of quality, allowing their expert opinions to world's largest museum, education and multicarrier remote radios. The TB4 plays heard on a global scale. The Skype-in-a- research complex. The National Air and a key role in Airbus' ecosystem approach; box is an all-in-one professional-grade Space Museum is one of 19 museums it is based on Nokia's AirScale base station unit with inbuilt Panasonic PTZ camera that make up the Smithsonian. platform and will enable its customers to and lighting. The unit is a simple setup, HawkEye 360 is fully funded to deploy benefit from a long Tetra lifecycle and a plug-and-play device, with no technical an additional five clusters, to reach a smooth evolution toward wireless expertise required. Built in Artificial total of 18 satellites in orbit by the end of broadband. Intelligence using the Pan, Tilt and Zoom 2021. HawkEye 360 is currently building camera enables the interviewee to a second cluster of satellites, set for Customers will immediately notice the easily frame the perfect head and launch in fall 2020. benefits of this new solution. Their power shoulders shot with a simple one-button consumption will decrease, and their click. This ensures the interviewee looks Wi-Fi hotspots coming flexibility will increase thanks to the and sounds professional on-air. extensive network coverage and use of “The Skype-in-a-box is a lightweight, to Mexican villages mainstream technology standardised by rugged unit that is small and compact the 3rd Generation Partnership Project enough to fit into a carry case for Hughes Network Systems confirms that (3GPP), adapted for Tetra. They will also transportation anywhere! We are very it is to roll out Wifi hotspots in close to be able to benefit from the higher excited to be debuting the solution at the 4,000 rural communities in Mexico. integration and longer operational life for show in April.” said Richard Rees, CEO Launching in collaboration with networks operating in 2030 and beyond. of Quicklink Telecomunicaciones de México, a Moreover, customers who are currently government body under the Mexico using the TB3 can conserve the same HawkEye 360 Secretariat of Communications and antenna configurations for use with the Transportation, the project will deploy TB4 which will enable a smooth transition Pathfinder selected for Hughes Express Wi-Fi Hotspots towards 4G/5G networks, with significant exhibition in new powered by Facebook Connectivity's cost savings in network planning and Express Wi-Fi platform. implementation. Smithsonian gallery "We are excited to provide under our The modern base station is initially made contract with Hughes the installation and available for a 380 MHz frequency and is HawkEye 360 Inc., the first commercial maintenance of the Hughes Express Wi- implemented according to the Airbus company to use formation flying Fi solution in rural communities hybrid strategy, thus ensuring customers a satellites to create a new class of radio nationwide," Sergio Viñals Padilla, smooth technological evolution. frequency (RF) data and data analytics, director general at TELECOMM. today announced that a model of its "Hughes satellite Internet will enable Pathfinder satellite has been transferred more Mexicans to enjoy transformation to the Smithsonian's permanent and social inclusion for the wellness of collection and will be displayed in a the population, as defined in the Federal Government Connectivity Program and

36 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

Social Coverage Program." wide-ranging security suite that management to domain awareness, The town of General Sandino was the first encompasses functionalities and Kratos is uniquely positioned to help location to receive the Hughes Express capabilities for communication security government agencies solve the Wi-Fi hotspot under this initiative, it (COMSEC), transmission security challenges of monitoring, managing, previously has no access to high-speed (TRANSEC), low probability of delivering and protecting this vital national internet. It is based a two-hour drive away interception (LPI) and low probability of resource,” commented Phil Carrai, from Tuxtla Gutierrez, the capital of detection (LPD). “Our solution for mission President of Kratos' Space, Training and Chiapas State in the southern region of critical satellite communications ensures Cybersecurity Division Mexico. h i g h l y s e c u r e d a n d e f f i c i e n t "The agreement with TELECOMM to communications to our government deploy Hughes Express Wi-Fi hotspots at customers so they can deliver on their Relativity Space thousands of rural locations reflects the mission,” said Aviv Ronai, VP Marketing power of the solution to make affordable and Product at NovelSat. “Already in secures new Hq facility Internet access available quickly to help deployment by leading government's in the heart of Southern connect the unconnected," said Ramesh organizations and contractors, our Ramaswamy, senior vice president and exceptional technology helps our California's next- general manager of international division customers to meet their current and future generation aerospace at Hughes. "We look forward to working challenges and make their networks together with TELECOMM to connect safe.” community more communities in Mexico with this turnkey, satellite broadband service.” Relativity Space, the first company to Kratos awarded $11.5 m utilize additive manufacturing and This offering uses Hughes JUPITER robotics to build an entire launch vehicle, System, the next-gen VSAT platform contract to build announced that it has secured a new designed and built for broadband services, advanced space radio headquarters in Long Beach, California. using Ka-band capacity from the JUPITER Located at 3500 E Burnett, Long Beach, 2 (EchoStar XIX) satellite to deliver monitoring system the 120,000 sq. ft. space will house both internet connectivity to locations that were the company's business operations and selected from the Federal Government Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. an unprecedented manufacturing facility. Connectivity Program. Additionally, at has been awarded an $11.5 million Relativity integrates machine learning, each site Facebook Connectivity's contract to build an advanced space radio software, and robotics with metal additive Express Wi-Fi Platform enables local monitoring system for a government manufacturing technology and will managers to operate the system and customer. The system will incorporate produce Terran 1, the world's first 3D make Wi-Fi available on numerous Kratos technologies and integrated printed rocket, at the Long Beach facility. devices. products to help the country regulate and “Relativity is disrupting nearly sixty years protect the satellite spectrum. of prior aerospace technology by building Last month, Hughes said that it may have As part of the multi-million dollar project, a new manufacturing platform using to close its Indian operations because of Kratos is responsible for the turnkey robotics, 3D printing, and AI. With no fixed unpaid fees it owes to the government The design, installation and integration of the tooling, Relativity has enabled a massive US satellite operator is facing similar advanced space radio monitoring system part count and risk reduction, increased troubles to that of the country's mobile including the core satellite technology and iteration speed and created an entirely operators, which at the start of the year, associated hardware and software. The new value chain,” said Tim Ellis, CEO and after losing its case in India's Supreme system includes a fixed site and mobile co-founder of Relativity Space. “I'm Court, was told it owes $14 billion in dues. unit to monitor satellite downlinks. The confident our autonomous factory will scope of work includes Kratos antennas, become the future technology stack for NOVELSAT introduces a satellite monitoring and geolocation the entire aerospace industry.” solution and an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle comprehensive solution (UAV) spectrum analysis solution. Relativity has already begun migrating staff to its new headquarters, and is for mission critical Kratos will deploy GeoMon, a specific transitioning its patented additive satellite application for frequency regulators to manufacturing infrastructure as it builds implement ITU missions, as well as the out the first-ever autonomous rocket communications Monics® carrier monitoring, satID® factory. The factory will house all geolocation, Compass® network Monitor production for Terran 1, the Aeon engine NOVELSAT, a leading provider of next & Control (M&C) and Skyminer ground assembly, as well as integrated software, generation content connectivity solutions, system data analytics products integrated avionics and materials development labs. announced a comprehensive solution for with the Kratos-designed antennas/RF The new facility enables production of the mission critical satellite communications. system to provide an end-to-end entire Terran 1 rocket, including an The growing cyber threats to satellite management solution. Skyminer will enlarged fairing, now accommodating communications requires new levels of enable the operators to collect double the payload volume. The security and protection for mission critical performance data across ground systems combination of agile manufacturing and communications of government's military, and use business intelligence to analyze payload capacity makes Relativity the defense, security and emergency satellite measurements from both most competitive launch provider in its organizations. Designed to deliver highest r e g u l a t o r y a n d t e c h n i c a l class, meeting the growing demands of levels of transmission security, robustness perspectives.“The dynamic increase in the expanding satellite market. and resiliency, NOVELSAT introduces capacity and capabilities of satellites comprehensive solution to meet the today is increasing the need for advanced “The space economy continues its growth growing applications and requirements of space monitoring systems to assure the in Long Beach with the addition of mission critical satellite communications. satellite spectrum. With our extensive Relatively,” shared Long Beach Mayor, Securing the content, protecting the capabilities and range of advanced Dr. Robert Garcia, “3D printing is transmission and preventing interception, products that span virtually the full range groundbreaking for new jobs and new the comprehensive solution provides a of ground operations, from networks to RF technologies in the space sector.”

37 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

“Long Beach has an extensive history as a investment and therefore without risk. r o b o t i c s , m a t e r i a l s c i e n c e s , leader in aerospace and aviation, and now Now, thanks to the new PoP in Miami, astrophysics or to test new technologies we are at the forefront of the space operators and users alike in the Americas in space, paving the way for their economy,” said California Senator Lena will also benefit from SatADSL's C-SDP commercialisation. The platform's Gonzalez. “We are excited to welcome with optimal latency.” unique vantage point 400 kilometres Relativity to our ever-growing community of above the Earth offers unobstructed innovative tech companies.” A Marlink teleport in South America will be views of our planet enabling the hosting the first to be connected to the Miami PoP. of external payload in low-Earth-orbit. “I am proud to welcome Relativity to our It will use the SES 4 satellite with ST Launch opportunities are available on community and wish them success as they Engineering Dialog® technology, to be every servicing mission to the ISS which go higher, further and faster to the stars,” integrated with the SatADSL's C-SDP. As is around every 3 months. The payload said 70th District Assemblymember Patrick the C-SDP is an entire OSS/BSS, carrier- accommodation allows slots for a wide O'Donnell. “The aerospace industry is grade, a fully redundant platform in the range of payload mass going from 5 to undergoing an economic resurgence in cloud, it offers many benefits, including 450 kg. They will be provided with optical Long Beach, providing the prospects of the ability for operators to outsource data downlink capacity of one to two good paying jobs and further opening up the satellite services with no upfront Terabytes per day. bounds of space for research.” The new investment and capitalize on their headquarters and factory mark another bandwidth offering. The new PoP, which In just 12 months any payload can be milestone in Relativity's steady execution will allow SatADSL to replicate European prepared and ready to operate. Payload towards its first launch. Relativity recently and African models, follows the sizes, interfaces, preparation before closed a $140 million funding round led by company's expansion in Singapore last launch and integration process are Bond and Tribe Capital, and has already year. SatADSL successfully installed a largely standardised. This reduces lead secured a launch site Right of Entry at Cape PoP in the region to enable local times and saves costs significantly Canaveral Launch Complex-16, an operators a range of benefits, such as compared to traditional mission costs. exclusive-use Commercial Space Launch accelerating the go-to-market thanks to Act (CSLA) agreement for NASA test sites, the complete suite of ready-to-use tools including E4 at the NASA Stennis Space available on the C-SDP at all levels of the Rocket Lab to launch Center, and a 20-year exclusive use lease value chain. mid-inclination satellite for a 220,000 square feet factory also at the NASA Stennis Space Center. The Long “SatADSL is very excited about the to monitor key global Beach facility was constructed and is upcoming extension, particularly as it regions managed by Pacific Industrial. moves us one step closer to offering continent-to-continent connectivity. We Rocket Lab, has inked a deal to launch a are continually looking for ways to expand dedicated mission for Capella Space. SatADSL to launch our offerings as a company to improve Together, Capella Space and Rocket our solutions for current and prospective Lab will launch the first ever synthetic platform-as-a-service clients,” said Michel Dothey, Chief aperture radar (SAR) satellite that offering in Americas Commercial Officer at SatADSL. delivers commercial data into a mid- inclination orbit to optimize hotspot SatADSL, a provider of professional monitoring of key regions in the world. connectivity services via satellite (VSAT), Successful launch for Launching later this year, the mission will has announced it will be launching a new Airbus' Bartolomeo loft the first satellite of Capella Space's Point of Presence (PoP) in Miami, Florida in Whitney constellation on an Electron March this year. As it continues to develop launch vehicle from Rocket Lab's The Airbus built Bartolomeo platform has its offering globally, SatADSL will provide Launch Complex 1 on New Zealand's been successfully launched from Cape operators in the American region with Mâhia Peninsula. By positioning the Canaveral, Florida, US. Bartolomeo, now access to its Cloud-based Service Delivery satellite to a 45 degree inclination, on its journey to the International Space Platform (C-SDP). The first-of-its-kind Capella Space will maximize coverage Station (ISS) and will be installed outside platform enables operators to deliver over important areas such as the Middle of the Columbus Laboratory, the satellite services via the cloud without East, Korea, Japan, South East Asia, European module of the ISS built by adding extra latency on top of that inherent Africa and the U.S. This launch paves Airbus. to geostationary satellite communication. the way for reliable and persistent Andreas Hammer, Airbus' Head of Space “Following the launch of its Platform-as-a- imagery of anywhere on the globe, day Exploration said: “This unique platform Service (PaaS) offering, SatADSL has or night, and in any weather conditions. will offer new and affordable Earth experienced amazing success and growth Capella's space-based radar can detect observation applications and give in the market. The range of services we sub-0.5 meter changes on the surface of companies and research institutions the offer, including the ability to provide pre- the Earth, providing insights and data unique opportunity to explore their project paid voucher-based services and the ability that can be used for security, agricultural quickly and easily in space.” to allow customers to easily operate as a and infrastructure monitoring, as well as Virtual Network Operator (VNO) without disaster response and recovery. Bartolomeo - named after Christopher Capital Expenditure (CAPEX), has Columbus' younger brother - is funded by triggered the interest of teleports as well as “At Capella Space, we help our Airbus and will be operated with the satellite and service operators from various customers solve some of the world's support of the European Space Agency global regions,” said FulvioSansone, Chief biggest and most complex problems – (ESA). The platform can host up to 12 Technology Officer at SatADSL. from climate change to infrastructure different payload slots, providing them monitoring – using on-demand, accurate with a power supply and data “In addition, the possibility offered to Earth observation data,” said transmission back to Earth. teleports to seamlessly access third party PayamBanazadeh, CEO of Capella Not only does this provide opportunities satellite hubs via our platform enables them Space. “Launching our first Whitney for Earth observation, but also to extend their range of services and their satellite on a dedicated Rocket Lab environmental and climate research, geographic coverage without any mission allows us to stay in control of our

38 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS orbit and focus on our goal to deliver Kymeta unveils next- selected as the OWC solution provider for customer-focused solutions in a timely HySpecIQ's new low earth orbit (LEO) manner.” gen satellite antenna for constellation. These advanced satellites will hybrid connectivity provide high-resolution hyperspectral WTA named COMSAT imaging that when combined with H y S p e c I Q ' s a d v a n c e d a n a l y t i c s Kymeta Corp., one of the high-tech independent Teleport platform—will serve vital needs in myriad ventures backed by Microsoft co-founder market verticals, including environmental Operator of the Year Bill Gates, has paired its next-generation intelligence, national security, natural satellite antenna with a new kind of hybrid resources, agriculture, insurance, and risk The World Teleport Association (WTA) connectivity service — reaching the next management. has announced the winners of the 25th level in its quest to make buying satellite- “This partnership is the latest example of annual Teleport Awards for Excellence based telecommunications as easy as BridgeComm's global market leadership in during an exclusive luncheon at buying cell service. providing fast, secure, enterprise-grade SATELLITE 2020. The awards are Bill Marks, Kymeta's chief strategy officer, broadband services for high-growth presented each year to organizations said the new combination of hardware and applications,” said Barry Matsumori, CEO of and individuals in the teleport industry software builds on Kymeta's current BridgeComm. “BridgeComm's advanced whose achievements have been service offerings, which hit the market two design and end-to-end service capability deemed exceptional by the international years ago. fulfill HySpecIQ's needs for trusted trade association and its awards “When you start to try to penetrate markets technology and a supplier that is both committees, made up of industry that aren't used to buying satellite innovative and reliable.” members from across the globe. services, especially mobility in the platforms that we're on, the customers “We're developing a system that addresses COMSAT was originally created by the want you to provide something as simple a wide array of spectral applications with Communications Satellite Act of 1962. as what they're used to when they buy timely and accurate solutions,” said Bill Its initial purpose was to serve as a handsets and cellular plans,” he told Sullivan, Executive Chairman and founder of public, federally funded corporation GeekWire. HySpecIQ. “BridgeComm's solution will intended to develop a commercial and The typical model involves buying the allow us to download large volumes of data international satellite communications hardware, and then navigating your way from our constellation with low latency, in a system. With its rich heritage and as one through a patchwork of service plans. “It's reliable, secure manner which ensures data of the pioneers in the satellite very difficult to say, 'Hey, buy this satellite integrity. It's these attributes, coupled with communications industry, COMSAT has antenna. Now, good luck, go find your own time to market and cost considerations, that been committed to the advancement of capacity,' ” Marks said. “People aren't clearly led us to select BridgeComm as our the industry since its creation in 1962. used to that, and they don't know how to do OWC partner.” it.” For the past six decades, COMSAT has To streamline the process, Redmond, BridgeComm has quickly garnered attention played an integral role in the growth and Wash.-based Kymeta is gearing up to offer as the first organization to commercialize advancement of the satellite industry, all-inclusive packages that combine its OWC and begin development of a global including being a founding member of next-generation u8 antenna with a network of optical ground stations designed both Intelsat, and Inmarsat and smorgasbord of Ku-band satellite to support complementary fixed and mobile founding the initial operating system of connectivity and cellular service. Kymeta terminals that provide high-bandwidth, high- Inmarsat from our Marisat system, the Connect packages will be priced on a per- security solutions for unique applications. A first global maritime network system. gigabyte basis, just like cell service. wireless technology offering rapid point-to- Our teleports have been operating Life Subscription rates start at $999 per month point data transmission via beams of light and Safety services continuously since for 1 gigabyte of data. “For the satellite that connect from one telescope to another 1976 and has been credited with saving industry, that is pretty earth-shattering,” using low-power, safe, infrared lasers in the numerous lives. Marks said. terahertz spectrum, OWC holds tremendous potential to augment RF, fiber and mmWave COMSAT brings over 40 years of Kymeta plans to add to its offerings as new technologies and extend the capabilities of experience in the satellite earth station satellite constellations begin beaming the terrestrial fiber grid—particularly in hard- and teleport industry and is a fully broadband services from low Earth orbit. to-access environments and in areas where licensed US common carrier. Located Those services should extend connectivity cell towers do not currently exist. on the east and west coasts, both to virtually every place on the planet. teleports have operated continuously “If you buy our u8 product, you can use it since their inception in 1976 and have a anywhere in the world at any frequency Cubic Awarded to strong history of handling complex that Ku-band operates, seamlessly,” networks. COMSAT's secure facilities Marks said. “That means that you can compete under US Army are connected to multiple terrestrial fiber roam around the world seamlessly as well, Global Tactical Advanced networks and provide geographic whereas the u7 didn't really allow for redundancy through both terrestrial and global roaming.” Communication Systems satellite transmission pathways. The contract teleports are equipped with automated and redundant electrical power sources, HySpecIQ Selects Cubic Corporation announced its Cubic HVAC systems, fire detection and Mission Solutions (CMS) business division suppression systems, and security BridgeComm as was named as one of the awardees to systems. Both facilities are supported communications partner compete under the U.S. Army for Global by onsite 24x7x365 network operations Tactical Advanced Communication Systems centers. Click here to learn more about for satellite (GTACS II) Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite COMSAT. hyperspectral imaging Quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle. The contract has a ceiling of $5.1 billion, with a five-year base, one five-year option period BridgeComm, Inc., announced that it was

39 IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

and a Firm Fixed Price, Cost Plus Fixed features a 150 KVA static switch on the especially as far as accidents and Fee and Cost No Fee contract, in technical power and an automatic transfer pollution are concerned. Recently there support of the Program Executive switch for dual utility power switching. was a very serious incident off the North Office Command, Control and The environment is difficult due to high Atlantic coast of Brazil when major Communications-Tactical (PEO C3T), level salt atmosphere. Therefore the quantities of oil where found in the ocean and Project Manager Tactical Network shelter is equipped with dual redundant 5 and along the beautiful beaches of North (PM Tactical Network). ton air conditioners that provide ample Eastern Brazil most likely spilled by a The Army will use this contract to cooling without the benefit of outside air single polluting ship. During recent acquire communications systems and being exchanged. Dual front end weeks and as part of the Brazilian s e r v i c e s , i n c l u d i n g s a t e l l i t e processors provide the interface for a Contingency Planning activities, ANP communications (SATCOM) terminals, comprehensive control and monitor participated intensely, together with the mobile satellite services, tactical system. Brazilian Navy and IBAMA (the Fauna & networking and secure communication The installation was completed on Flora protection agency of the Ministry of solutions. GTACS II serves as a schedule despite very challenging site the Environment) in the search for the strategic contract vehicle, enabling conditions, which included unusually culprit(s). Cubic to be an integral provider of heavy rain and high wind conditions. The information from radio frequency tactical communications solutions for activity on board ships navigating in the Army over the next decade. Kleos Data to target Brazilian waters from Kleos Space would “We offer highly proven and environmental have been very useful had it been differentiated tactical communications available at the time of the North-eastern c a p a b i l i t i e s t o s u p p o r t t h e challenges in Brazil Brazil events because it is very likely that expeditionary needs of our military the ship(s) that caused the pollution knew forces,” said Mike Twyman, president of Kleos Space S.A. announces that the what they were doing and were therefore Cubic Mission Solutions. “GTACS II very careful to avoid scrutiny by switching gives us an additional avenue to B r a z i l i a n G o v e r n m e n t a g e n c y AgênciaNacional do Petróleo, Gás Natural off their AIS transmitters. Kleos' data continue delivering our comprehensive would cause the Government's C4ISR solutions to one of our key e Biocombustíveis, ANP is to evaluate Kleos data at no cost for three months monitoring system to be much more customers and positions us well for efficient" continued growth.” commencing at the time the relevant data set is made available, after which the cost Cubic was among 22 companies that for continuation is subject to final licence Hughes and OneWeb were selected to compete under the negotiation (Pre-Order). announce global GTACS II contract vehicle. GTACS II According to the Pre-Order by a Brazilian covers information technology services Government agency, Kleos CEO, Andy distribution partnership and hardware to support the Bowyer said, “This is Kleos first entrance for LEO satellite service d e v e l o p m e n t o f a t a c t i c a l into a South American Government communications network for soldiers. agency. Kleos data will be instrumental in the fight against environmental crimes, The vehicle also includes services such Hughes Network Systems, LLC explicitly demonstrating the case for Kleos as systems engineering; hardware and andOneWeb announced that Hughes data. Our satellites are now on site in India software engineering; development; has become a worldwide distribution ready for the final stages of launcher maintenance; software development, partner for OneWeb. OneWeb's integration, we look forward to working sustainment and support; program constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with our global customers very soon on management and analysis; logistics; satellites will expand Hughes service their very real on-going challenges”. and supply chain management. offerings and ensure its customers can Mr. Enrico Pedroso of the ANP who has 25 access low-latency, high-speed years of industry experience & Professor STS Global successfully completed two connectivity, wherever they are. of Applied Remote Sensing at the Geology major 9 meter Ku band Earth Stations Applications will include enterprise and Faculty of Rio State University UERJ, for SES at Sunset Beach Teleport, government networking, cellular speaking on the need for ANP to access Oahu Hawaii. The Earth stations were backhaul and community Wi-Fi hotspots. Geolocated RF Data from Kleos Space: unique in that they are a combination "We are entering a new era of global “What is needed is a variety of earth TT&C and communications channels. connectivity demand that can only be observation datasets such as optical & Each antenna is equipped with four 750 fulfilled by a mix of data transport SAR imagery, AIS data, meteorological watt Ku-Band TWTA- HPA in a 1:3 s e r v i c e s , i n c l u d i n g t e r r e s t r i a l , and oceanographic data, etc. operating in redundancy configuration, which geostationary and Low Earth Orbit an integrated manner which is where the provides for communications uplinks on satellites," said PradmanKaul, president, kind of data Kleos will soon be delivering dual polarizations plus a satellite Hughes. "OneWeb complements our will be very useful to identify potentially control uplink. service portfolio with a truly global illegal shipping activities and pin-point coverage, low-latency option that will locations which should be investigated The antennas are equipped with dual enable our customers to meet their end with the other earth observation data sets jack positions that allow 200 degree u s e r s ' n e e d s f o r c o n n e c t i v i t y available. The fact that Brazil does not Azimuth coverage. The down links are everywhere.” 1:3 dual band LNBs covering the full have an active high-performance earth observation system to monitor the ocean 10.7-12.75 GHz band. Each Station is The new agreement expands an already has played a major factor in preventing the equipped with uplink power control, successful relationship between the two government from finding the culprit(s) who uplink and down link Matrix switches, companies. Hughes is an investor, cause pollution.” high stability BUCs with external through its parent company EchoStar, references. The equipment is housed and an ecosystem partner to OneWeb, MrPedroso continued, "The ANPs' in a 30 foot shelter constructed and helping to develop essential ground Superintendence for Operational Security integrated in Saint Louis and shipped network technology for OneWeb's LEO & Environment (SSM), is responsible for by land and sea to site. The system system. the monitoring of the environment in Brazil, IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

OneWeb works with carefully selected leveraging technologies developed for satellite partners, while also providing distribution partners in each of its core the industry's first- ever satellite capacity for a host of new players entering markets, providing new business and servicing vehicle, the Mission Extension space,” says COMSAT CEO David expansion opportunities through the low Vehicle (MEV). Greenhill. “Once finished, COMSAT will latency, global, high throughput attributes MEV-1, designed and built by Northrop deliver the most advanced, powerful and of OneWeb's network. Grumman, launched in October 2019 interconnected global network and ground and successfully completed the first facilities which combined will support more "Connectivity is only truly valuable when it docking in geosynchronous orbit with an satellite constellation providers, and their delivers the user experience that Intelsat satellite on Feb. 25. Northrop customers, than any other terrestrial customers need, and in today's fast- Grumman will also channel its deep network.” moving digital economy, businesses and expertise in spacecraft development and Through the acquisition of additional land, civil government organizations need high on-orbit servicing to lead the system the building of three new 7.3M Ku-band quality, continuous internet access level design, integration, testing, launch antennas, and the re-sectoring and re- wherever they are," said Adrian Steckel, and mission operations over the life of anchoring of existing antenna assets, chief executive officer, OneWeb. "I'm the satellite. COMSAT will provide augmented delighted that Hughes is joining OneWeb “Our selection as DARPA's commercial connectivity access to a diverse range of on our mission to deliver this vision. partner expands our leadership in space satellites, including GEO, LEO and MEO Hughes is already an important investor logistics,” said Tom Wilson, president, constellations from both its Southbury, and an invaluable technology partner, SpaceLogistics LLC. “The new robotics CT., and Santa Paula, CA. teleports. Upon and I look forward to working together to technology on this mission advances our completion in March 2020, the enhanced bring OneWeb's pioneering technology to vision to build a fleet of satellite servicing operations will boost COMSAT's extensive markets around the world." vehicles that provide customers with a n e t w o r k e n s u r i n g c o n s i s t e n t , OneWeb is building its initial constellation variety of options to select the type of life- comprehensive redundancy and of 650 LEO satellites. By late 2021, extension or in-orbit repairs they need.” seamless connectivity solutions for OneWeb will be offering low latency In addition to the Mission Robotic Vehicle satellite partners and customers operating globally, with the same capacity over the for SpaceLogistics, Northrop Grumman in multiple service environments water, in the air, in previously is developing expanded life extension worldwide. unconnectable places, and everywhere services for the mission that include COMSAT's agnostic approach defines its else. Mission Extension Pods. The new pods ability to optimize and adapt its services, augment the propulsion system of aging infrastructure and support in a rapidly Northrop Grumman's satellites and provide six years of orbital expanding and dynamic sector. This life extension. The Mission Robotic enables partners and customers to subsidiary, Vehicle will be used to install these effectively maximize the capabilities of the SpaceLogistics, augmentation platforms on existing in- space-based assets to provide essential orbit commercial and government client mission communication systems and selected by DARPA as satellites to extend their mission lives. ensure on-time and seamless operations, commercial partner for no matter how complex. COMSAT strengthens The latest COMSAT investment also robotic servicing supports the full SD communications redundancy and network. As part of the Satcom Direct mission family of companies, COMSAT works terrestrial network with closely with the SD Data Center providing SpaceLogistics LLC, a wholly owned significant teleport one of the industry's top-rated subsidiary of Northrop Grumman cybersecurity services. The SD Data Corporation has been selected by the expansions Center in Melbourne, FL. allows U.S. Defense Advanced Research customers to use the teleports as a bridge Projects Agency (DARPA) as its COMSAT Inc., is making significant for both legacy and new networks through commercial partner for the agency's investments in its Tier 4 certified U.S. its in-house data center services. Access Robotic Servicing of Geosynchronous t e l e p o r t a n d g r o u n d n e t w o r k to its cloud services or any of the Satellites (RSGS) program. The infrastructure. The physical expansion numerous cloud service providers is also groundbreaking mission will feature the enables COMSAT to create new levels of available. first-ever commercial robotic servicing terrestrial redundancy, bolster its spacecraft and aims to expand the military-grade cybersecurity offering, market for satellite servicing of both and increase capacity across its entire PredaSAR completes commercial and government client network. The development will also $25 m seed financing satellites with advanced robotics support working with multiple global technology. The program objectives carriers to optimize more geographically round, Names CEO include enhanced capabilities such as in- diverse network routes, minimizing orbit repair, augmentation, assembly, latency and outage times. PredaSAR Corporation announced that it detailed inspection and relocation of “Any satellite network is only as good as successfully completed a $25 million seed client satellites. its ground infrastructure, as even the financing round. Funds were raised from a Under the agreement, DARPA will most technically advanced satellite diverse network of global institutional provide the robotics payload for the cannot communicate effectively and investors, including Miami-based lead Space Logistics Mission Robotic Vehicle. efficiently if it is not supported by a investor, Rokk3r Fuel. The Company also This payload, developed and integrated robust, resilient terrestrial network. named retired Air Force Major General by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, These assets cost hundreds of millions Roger W. Teague as Chief Executive consists of two dexterous robotic of dollars to deploy, yet without reliable Officer. manipulator arms, along with several terrestrial support they are essentially Synthetic Aperture Radar is an advanced tools and sensors. SpaceLogistics will inoperable. Our mission is to ensure that form of radar used to create 2-D images or provide its Mission Robotic Vehicle bus never happens as we continue satisfying 3-D reconstructions of objects. the increased demand from existing IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

Overcoming the limitations of traditional the Space Based Infrared Systems provide services to 2,200 urban public optical satellites, SAR provides high- (SBIRS) program to first launch, to schools (1.7 million students) and 9,400 resolution images, irrespective of time of helping The Boeing Company secure a basic health units or hospitals,” added day or weather conditions. Recent number of recent big wins in their space Menezes. a d v a n c e m e n t s i n e n g i n e e r i n g , communications portfolio, we are manufacturing and the way SAR data is fortunate to have such an experienced collected and processed, have individual at the helm of PredaSAR.” decreased the size, weight, power Fugro and NOAA consumption and cost of SAR systems. At collaborate on new the same time, the capabilities of SAR Brazil unveils have increased so that data can be sent initiatives to boost 'opportunistic' approach to the ground in virtual real time to support to EEZ mapping mission-critical commercial and military telecom infrastructure applications. The Federal Government, through the Fugro has partnered with the US National "There is an ever-increasing demand for Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration low-latency SAR data. PredaSAR's Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovations and Communications, Office of Ocean Exploration and Research pending constellation will feature (NOAA OER) to establish a new constant image capture to end users, developed a series of initiatives to stimulate the expansion of the 'opportunistic' approach for mapping resulting in the most powerful small- deepwater areas of the US Exclusive satellite SAR system ever delivered, that telecommunications infrastructure in Brazil. Economic Zone (EEZ). As Fugro's survey is well-ahead of other satellite vessels transit to project sites through technology," commented Marc Bell, Among the measures, the auction of 5G- related radiofrequency bands will be NOAA-identified areas of interest, remote PredaSAR Chairman and Co-Founder. command and control technologies are "Proceeds from the raise will be used to held in the last quarter of 2020 by Anatel and is considered to be the largest used to acquire high-resolution mapping manufacture and launch two SAR data with minimal crew onboard. satellites through a strategic partnership spectrum auction in the world so far. Licenses for the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, 3.5 with Tyvak, the world's leading innovator A first test of the approach took place last and provider of nano- and microsatellites. GHz and 26 GHz bands will be made available. autumn in the Blake Plateau region off the Tyvak's broad range of end-to-end coasts of Georgia and Florida, resulting in satellite knowledge and expertise will To facilitate telecommunications infrastructure deployment, the Federal 28 000 km2 of new EEZ mapping data boost PredaSAR's capabilities and delivered to NOAA in February. With only empower the Company to establish a Government is preparing the regulation of the Antennas Law, which will be about 40 % of the US EEZ mapped and strong foundation." significantly less of the area characterised, Jeff Ransdell, Founding Partner and published in 2020. Among other measures, the new regulation will the new Blake Plateau mapping data will Managing Director of Rokk3r Fuel said, contribute to the goals and objectives "Rokk3r Fuel is very proud to be part of provide for a “deemed granted” rule for municipal infrastructure deployment outlined in a November 2019 Presidential the PredaSAR journey. The Company's Memorandum on Ocean Mapping of the vision and business model align exactly permit requests that are not answered after a pre-established period of time, as United States Exclusive Economic Zone with our Firm's intent to support and Shoreline and Nearshore of Alaska, entrepreneurs with groundbreaking ideas well as establish a permit waiver for small-sized equipment. which calls for bold action to map, explore, propelled by exponential technologies and characterise the ocean. Additionally, that have the potential to change the There was a recent reform of the Brazilian General Telecommunications Fugro will contribute mapping data world. PredaSAR is an absolute game- collected while transiting to and from the changer in its space." Law that is set to allow the migration of the current fixed telephony concessions Blake Plateau project site as part of its to the authorisation regime, which has a ongoing crowdsourced bathymetry Major General Roger Teague was programme related to Seabed 2030. commissioned in 1986 as a graduate of lighter institutional framework. This will allow the current fixed telephony the U.S. Air Force Academy. His career “We are excited to partner with NOAA on included a broad range of assignments infrastructure, which has been maintained by contractual force, to be such an important and ground-breaking primarily acquiring, operating and project,” said David Millar, Government supporting space systems. Among his replaced by modern broadband networks. Accounts Director for Fugro in the important assignments, he commanded Americas. “Over the past several years, the 4th Space Operations Squadron, The Brazilian Ministry of Science, we've developed and refined our remote where he led his unit during launch, test service technology to streamline project and operational activation of three Milstar Te c h n o l o g y, I n n o v a t i o n s a n d Communications coordinated an inter- schedules, reduce costs, continuously communications satellites. He also improve health and safety of our staff, and served as the Director, Space Programs, ministerial project that aims to bring fibre optics to underserved cities and towns in lower our carbon footprint. This same Office of the Assistant Secretary for technology is utilised in the opportunistic Acquisition in Washington, D.C. For the Northern Region. This is the Integrated and Sustainable Amazon mapping model. By leveraging the location Teague's distinguished military and movements of suitable survey background, see here. Project (PAIS). PAIS' goal is to launch 5,000 km of sub-fluvial cables across the platforms, we can acquire high-accuracy, Amazon River and its main tributaries, high-resolution bathymetry data with limited "With more than 30 years of distinguished staff onboard. The approach is both efficient service to our nation while serving in the according to government official. “The project is carried out by the and cost-effective, and we believe it has Air Force, Maj. Gen. Teague has been tremendous potential in helping close tasked with guiding a trusted and National Education and Research Network and, in addition to providing an bathymetry data gaps, not only in the US but experienced executive team, and brings all over the world.” a wealth of national security space unprecedented capacity to the private expertise and demonstrated excellence initiative in the region, benefiting a to PredaSAR," said Bell. "From guiding population of 9.5 million people; it will NGMN Alliance launches IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

further strengthens our ability to deliver everywhere, all the time, and we are initiative to advance a comprehensive control system innovating the technologies and cloud, automation & edge solutions for our business partners and s e r v i c e s t h a t m a k e c o n s t a n t customers." said Radeus Labs' CEO, connectivity possible for people, computing Juliet Correnti. enterprises and things," said With this acquisition, Radeus Labs will PradmanKaul, president of Hughes. The Board of the Next Generation Mobile manufacture and provide support for it's "We are making the connected future Networks (NGMN) Alliance launches new new SSC™ product line as part of its possible with innovations that leverage key activities to support the adoption of a SATCOM line of business. The new the value of geostationary High- c l o u d n a t i v e i n f r a s t r u c t u r e f o r Radeus SSC™ product line consists of Throughput Satellites (HTS), Non- telecommunication service providers. The Beacon Tracking Receivers (BTR), Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) satellites initiative will address hybrid cloud Frequency Converters, Block Down and terrestrial services, because we architecture (e.g. edge computing) Converters (BDCs) and Low Noise need every type of transport to meet the challenges and will lead to a paradigm Block Converters (LNBs). unabating demand for bandwidth.” change in the network vision of the industry. The project has been highlighted as a crucial The SSC™ Beacon Tracking Receiver Multi-transport Terminals development area to further optimise and (now Radeus SSC™ BTR) product line, guide the telecoms industry towards the The Hughes HT2000L multi-transport which has been a mainstay of earth terminal provides connectivity for both successful deployment of 5G beyond 2020. stations worldwide for nearly 40 years, TIM senior manager, project sponsor and satellite and cellular/LTE services, each is the first product line that Radeus operating either as the primary network member of the NGMN Alliance Board Andrea Labs is placing into production at their Calvi said: “We're delighted to be leading the path or as back-up, with automatic facilities in Southern California. “We are failover switching between the two. way with 5G projects that will address and really excited to be able to provide the define the high level target architecture for Designed to enable an integrated and Radeus SSC™ BTR.” says the CTO of compact Software-Defined Wide Area telco networks based on cloud native Radeus Labs, Ken Cone. “Available infrastructure, open interfaces and open Network (SD-WAN) solution for high immediately, it is also going to be an availability across LTE and satellite source adoption. This will open vendor effective starting platform for our new ecosystems, reduce TCO and gain connectivity, the HT2000L serves monopulse tracking receiver.” network needs for quick-service flexibility.” The BTR expands the existing satcom “NGMN is proud to be leading the efforts to restaurants, retail petroleum and product offerings of the 8200, 2200 and convenience stores, government offices address and define the target architecture for 2300 Antenna Control Systems and the most relevant use cases for E2E and the energy sector. also provides the option of an external The Hughes HT2000L Multipath automation and orchestration, made tracking receiver from Radeus Labs. possible by this initiative,” said Dr. Peter Terminal was named a winner of the Radeus Labs, Inc., with headquarters TMC Labs INTERNET TELEPHONY Meissner, CEO of the NGMN Alliance. “The and manufacturing facilities in Poway, qualitative effects of cloud native will support Innovation Award, and sets the standard CA, is a leader in the design, for future multi-transport devices. telco service providers with value creation manufacturing and marketing of a n d s u s t a i n a b i l i t y . ” leading-edge hardware and software Satellite System Roaming systems for the defense and SATCOM The work will address requirements from In another first, the JUPITER™ System, markets. Radeus Labs products are the Hughes VSAT platform for operators who are keen to deliver efficient, thoughtfully designed with a focus on high-quality and reliable 5G networks to the broadband satellite implementations on ease of use, high performance and land, at sea and in the air, now supports market. Activities include cloud native sustainability. Our products provide infrastructure, hardware dis-aggregation, roaming capabilities for aeronautical above average product life spans and and maritime mobility applications. Any open interfaces, open platforms, edge deliver added value to our customers. computing, and automation. JUPITER-equipped vessel or aircraft Our customer service and support are can roam into any other authorized NGMN recognises that a number of industry unrivaled in our industry. organisations are currently working on JUPITER-powered system around the different aspects of the topics described world. Moreover, when integrated with above. This NGMN initiative aims to facilitate Hughes demonstrates antenna control, JUPITER terminals can a close alignment, leading to the integration hybrid products for roam seamlessly between GEO and of results to form a common architectural NGSO satellites, as demonstrated view. connectivity during a recent test flight which also achieved 265 Mbps of throughput to the Hughes Network Systems, LLC, the aircraft. Radeus Labs Inc. global leader in broadband satellite announces acquisition of networks and services, announced a H u g h e s A c t i v e P a t h ™ satellite systems new suite of innovations that advance Technology connectivity beyond single-transport Powering multi-transport services corporation product line services, yielding smart solutions for requires multi-transport technologies. A s m a l l b u s i n e s s , e n t e r p r i s e , proprietary, artificial intelligence (AI)- Radeus Labs, Inc., a leading provider of high aeronautical, and military applications. d r i v e n t e c h n o l o g y , H u g h e s performance electronic and computing New Hughes technologies include ActivePath™ automatically classifies systems for the defense and SATCOM multi-transport terminals, satellite customer traffic flows and selects the markets, has announced the closure of its roaming capabilities and patented best mode of transport – such as HTS or acquisition of the company product line of Hughes ActivePath™ technology that LTE – to optimize the transmission. SSC, formerly Satellite Systems dynamically senses and selects the Already in use at nearly 3,000 sites, Corporation. "This acquisition supports the best available transport technology. Hughes ActivePath is blazing a new trail strategic expansion of our product line and "Everyone wants to be connected, of hybrid solutions that intelligently IN THE NEWS AMERICAS utilize multiple transports with varying solutions to combat such, has comprehensive business throughputs, latency, data costs and continuity plans to ensure continued coverage area to improve performance and cybercrime operations of its satellites, network and reliability. teleport infrastructure.“The continued safety and well-being of our employees Verizon Business has added new is our top priority,” stated Dan Goldberg, ESA collaboration security solutions to its security portfolio CEO of Telesat. “We have invested in the between Gilat and as it looks to help business combat right tools and business continuity Carlisle Interconnect cybercrime. The two new solutions, planning and, as a result, can maintain Verizon Managed Detection and the critical infrastructure and services Technologies now Response and Verizon Identity and that our customers rely while our work presented at Satellite Verizon Machine State Integrity, are from home policy is in effect. designed to help business protect 2020 themselves against threats. In addition to the new solutions, Verizon Hughes to Connect Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., a worldwide has enhanced its Rapid Response U.S. Army's Gray Eagle leader in satellite networking technology, Retainer service, which offers solutions and services, has announced the companies cyber intelligence and UAV with Next Gen collaboration with Carlisle Interconnect incident response capabilities directly Technologies (CIT), one of the world's from the Verizon Threat Research Satellite leading designers and manufacturers of Advisory Centre (VTRAC). Communications high-performance wire and cable, on a "Cybercrime is a daily threat to every newly designed ESA terminal with an organisation and government across Hughes Network Systems, LLC has integrated Thermal Management Solution. the globe. Our 2019 Data Breach b e e n a w a r d e d a D a t a L i n k The uniquely designed small form factor Investigations Report highlighted that Modernization (DLM) contract by ESA terminal is on display at the Satellite financially motivated cyberattacks are General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, 2020 show in Washington DC. increasing across the board, and that C- Inc. (GA-ASI) to provide new advanced Gilat's Electronically Steered Antenna level executives are increasingly and satellite communications (SATCOM) (ESA) was the first-ever to demonstrate in- proactively targeted by social breaches, systems for the U.S. Army's MQ-1C Gray flight operation over Ka on a commercial linked to (for example) stolen Eagle Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). aircraft. A series of successful test flights credentials," says Alex Schlager, Under the contract, Hughes will provide took place over the last few months over executive director and chief product advanced, ruggedized HM400 modems GEO and LEO satellites. The ESA terminal officer of security services at Verizon that integrate with the DoD's waveform is a fully electronic beam steering, no Business. technology to support the wide range of moving parts terminal, featuring wide "Now, more than ever, organisations unique mission requirements of the U.S. instantaneous bandwidth, wideband need to be thinking differently about Army – including operations in contested frequency support, instantaneous beam security, and leveraging cutting edge environments. switching and gate-to-gate operation. The technology to help mitigate against Hughes will provide both air and ground elegant compact design by CIT exhibits an cybercrime. These Verizon solutions modems for the U.S. Army Gray Eagle ultra-low profile, small footprint and an all- offer a significant step forward in Extended Range UAS platform with inclusive offering of outdoor antenna cybersecurity protection." Verizon ongoing software upgrades to maintain equipment in a single line replacement unit Managed Detection and Response continuous operational resiliency. for: antenna, baseplate, skirt and (MDR) is a new managed security Hughes will work with Comtech transparent radome. service that leverages analytics and Telecommunications Corp. on the “Gilat is most pleased to join forces with its b e h a v i o u r m o d e l l i n g t o h e l p production of ground equipment and p a r t n e r, C a r l i s l e I n t e r c o n n e c t organisations quickly identify potential waveform technology in support of the Technologies, and to present Gilat's ESA cyberthreats. The fully-managed, program. terminal in CIT's booth at Satellite,” said scalable, cloud-based solution overlays “We are very excited to support GA-ASI RoniStoleru, Vice President Antenna Verizon's core remote threat with a modern, cost-effective and open Products & Strategy at Gilat. “Carlisle monitoring, detection and response systems architecture with the speed, Interconnect Technologies' team is the capabilities with built-in multi-layer flexibility and resiliency necessary to expert in innovative Thermal Management analytics and behaviour modelling from meet the next generation of mission Solutions (TMS) and we couldn't be more Securonix. Verizon MDR is available requirements for the Army and other DoD pleased with the elegant and compact globally from April 2020. users,” said Rick Lober, vice president design of Gilat's proven technology for and general manager of the Defense which we are already seeing significant Telesat closes offices Division at Hughes. “This contract market interest.” reinforces the commitment of both “We are delighted to collaborate with Gilat globally as cautionary General Atomics and Hughes to serving and to display the ESA terminal in our booth measure due to the U.S. Army with enhanced in Satellite 2020,” said Kris Samuelson, communications capabilities for mission- Director of Sales, IFCE/Interiors at CIT. COVID-19 pandemic critical unmanned platforms.” “Gilat's proven and scalable technology easily integrates our Thermal Management Solution for both the small form factor Telesat has announced it has enacted New satellite mission business and general aviation market, as its work from home policy in its offices contract and second well as the commercial aviation market.” globally effective March 16, 2020 in an effort to keep office workers safe and US office for facilitate social distancing amidst the Verizon expands security increase of COVID-19. Telesat provides NanoAvionics portfolio with new critical satellite communications infrastructure to its customers and as NanoAvionics announced the reception IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

of a full mission contract for two 6U the next step in our mission to become to the deserts of Australia and Saudi nanosatellites and the opening of a new the go-to company for manufacturing Arabia.” Klein continued. sales and engineering support office in a n d l a u n c h i n g n a n o s a t e l l i t e Columbia (IL), USA. The mission contract constellations for businesses Klein added: “A new vertical market for includes payload integration, launch and worldwide." tracking LEO's (Low Earth Orbit), o p e r a t i o n s e r v i c e s f o r t h e t w o Smallsats and CubeSats is emerging and nanosatellites, both of which are based on C-COM reports 15th C-COM has developed advanced tracking NanoAvionics' pre-configured M6P bus. algorithms for this market for use with its The launch of both satellites is planned for consecutive profitable existing Flyaway antennas. These new the end of this year. satellites operate in low earth orbit and "Constantly increasing demand for our year and Q4 results deliver large amounts of data. C-COM has standardized satellite buses and this latest deployed several antenna systems with mission contract from a US commercial C-COM Satellite Systems Inc., a these new entrants and has demonstrated data services company represents a leading global provider of mobile auto- successful tracking of these fast-moving significant milestone of NanoAvionics deploying satellite antenna systems, satellites. We expect this new market to penetration in the US market for New Space has announced financial results for the generate incremental revenue for the as well as in the US Civil space sector", said fiscal year ended November 30, 2019. company in 2020 and beyond.” F. Brent Abbott, CEO of NanoAvionics The Company has generated revenues “The Company is also involved in North America. "Completing our Columbia of $13,977,909 and a net after tax profit extensive R&D of next generation antenna office will support our efforts to provide US of $2,843,092 or 8 cents per share. This technologies in conjunction with the customers with the most cost-efficient compared with 2018 total revenues of University of Waterloo. Several patents satellite buses and hosted payload flights in $13,527,368 and a net after tax profit of from this research project have already low Earth orbit (LEO)." $2,299,501 or 6 cents per share, been filed and we expect to file others While NanoAvionics' US Columbia Facility representing an increase of 3.3% and before research is complete. This effort is is the company's second office in the United 23.6% respectively. expected to provide C-COM with a States, it is set to be the primary The working capital of the Company revolutionary, patentable Ka-band NanoAvionics hub in the Unites States. It is has increased by 8.8% to $22,383,369 antenna technology to be used with the also the first satellite factory in Illinois and at November 30, 2019 as compared to growing number of HTS's (High the Midwest. The Columbia Facility allows $20,580,939 at November 30, 2018. Throughput Satellites) being launched in NanoAvionics' to take advantage of a great The Company paid out $1,882,033 in the next several years. This intelligent talent pool from multiple local universities quarterly dividends during fiscal 2019 scalable and conformal antenna and their graduates and staff equipped with compared to $1,851,878 in fiscal 2018, technology is designed to be mass nanosatellite experience. The low cost of representing a 1.6% increase. Based on producible at a reasonable price and be operations and living will also allow its closing price of $1.89 per share on compatible with 5G and other developing NanoAvionics to maintain its competitive March 13, 2020, the quarterly dividend millimeter wave technologies.” Klein status in a tough market. Following the provided a yield of 2.65% per annum. concluded. The Company has maintained opening of NanoAvionics' US facility at the Results for Q4 2019 saw revenues its quarterly dividend payout while Midland Air and Space Port last year, the increase by 40.6% to $7,009,616 when continuing to innovate and invest into the company will keep it as a scalable resource compared with results from the same next generation of advanced antenna for high quantity nanosatellite bus period last year, when total revenues products. production, for both single missions and were $4,987,090. The net after tax profit constellations. increased 83.8% to $2,497,636 The Company also announces the compared with the same period last retirement of Jim Fowles as CFO. Mr. "Nanosatellite buses are becoming a year when the after-tax profit was Fowles has been with C-COM for 15 years commodity and we have been applying the $1,358,665. and will be retiring with effect after the filing same standardization and principles that of the year end financial statements. Mr. have been used in the automotive industry “The company delivered better sales Fowles will be replaced by Art Slaughter, for more than a century to create a universal and higher profitability in fiscal year CPA, CFA. Mr. Slaughter brings to C-COM small satellite vehicle, capable to host a big 2019 than the previous year. In 2019 we over 10 years of CFO experience and variety of payloads and be used for diverse finished the development of our new expertise in corporate development and applications.” Manpack series antenna systems and finance across a number of industries and saw the first large order for over 100 banking. The advantages and benefits of units delivered to our reseller in Japan NanoAvionics' industrial approach include for cellular backhaul use. Our new Renesas expands RF reducing cost by standardizing the bus Manpack series antennas are design while increasing the range and generating very strong interest from beamforming portfolio capabilities of the payload. NanoAvionics new markets segments around the for satellite estimates that more than 80% of the world. These small, one-case, one man nanosatellite bus can remain the same back-pack like antennas are designed communications, radar, even when the mission and payload varies. to be carried by a single person and That in return means replicability, increased assembled in about eight minutes and phased array reliability, lower costs and much shorter without the use of tools.” said Leslie applications production times which lead to greater Klein, President & CEO of C-COM. speed to market and faster revenues. "Building hundreds of satellites for the “C-COM's flagship iNetVu® mobile Renesas Electronics Corporation planned constellations in a short time frame antenna line also continues to gain expanded its portfolio of mmWave of 12-15 months requires a universal bus worldwide acceptance and are solutions with the introduction of two new design and an industrial approach for the operating reliably from the most IC families for satellite communications mass production of nanosatellite buses. It's Northern areas of Canada and Russia (Satcom), radar, and phased array applications: The F65xx transmit active IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

beamforming ICs and F692x low-noise public safety. Nokia is working with the technology for intelligent filtering of amplifiers (LNAs). Featuring a combination world's leading manufacturers to develop network traffic.The dedicated servers of of low power consumption, high gain, and high-precision sensors and algorithms the company provide constant free compact size, the new solutions deliver a for industrial applications that can deliver access to their IPMI (note - abbr. from the performance boost for antennas used in all the cost-competitive benefits of easily intelligent platform management Satcom and radar systems. deployed, low-power, wide-area network interface), which allows to quickly solve The F65xx and F692x devices address the technology. any issue with hosting in a remote format thermal and integration challenges Implementation of expressway slope even in case of a emergency situation. designers face as they transition from bulky safety evaluation, using monitoring and G-Core Labs virtual server is based on mechanically scanned antennas to lower early warning systems, is one of the main KVM virtualization technology, which weight and profile active electronically objectives of the Ministry of Transport's guarantees high and uninterrupted scanned array antennas (AESAs). The two 13th Five Year Plan, and will make a performance and is equipped with fast new families support Satcom, radar and major contribution to road safety. SSD disks. You can get acquainted with point-to-point communications applications It is of social and economic importance the configuration options of dedicated in the Ku, Ka, and CDL frequency bands. to establish an effective highway slope and virtual servers by the link. “When migrating to AESAs from mechanical monitoring network, capable of The global architecture of G-Core Labs antennas, our customers require reliable, assessing geological and environmental content delivery network, located on 5 compact and cost-effective ICs with parameters in real time to accurately continents, was created by experts on exceptionally low power consumption and predict and prevent possible disasters. high-load systems. Today, it includes noise figures that meet their system EIRP more than 60 points of presence, 5000+ and G/T requirements,” said Naveen peering partners, 300+ cash servers and Ya n d u r u , Vi c e P r e s i d e n t o f R F G-Core Labs launched the total network capacity is 10+ C o m m u n i c a t i o n s , I n d u s t r i a l a n d new American hosting Tbit/sec. Communications Business Division at Renesas. “We are excited about the in Ashburn emerging capabilities that our new IC Arianespace to deliver families will enable, including in-flight live G-Core Labs, the international provider OneWeb video conferencing, ubiquitous global of cloud and edge solutions, is expanding constellation's broadband connectivity and all-weather its presence in USA by opening a new r a d a r s i t u a t i o n a l a w a r e n e s s f o r point of hosting in Ashburn, Virginia. The satellites autonomous vehicles and drones.” new location is already demonstrating one of the best connections on the local Nokia has announced, in partnership with market with an average response time of Flight ST28, the 28th Soyuz commercial China Mobile/CMCC Guangxi, that it is 26 ms. The infrastructure in Ashburn is mission from the BaikonurCosmodrome delivering a landslide monitoring and early also a part of the company's global performed by Arianespace and its warning system for highways operations content delivery network. Starsem affiliate, will put 34 OneWeb management company, BGIGC Group “The development of our hosting satellites into a near polar orbit at an (Guangxi Beibu Gulf Investment Group Co. network in the homeland of the Internet altitude of 450 kilometers. After L t d ) . D e p l o y e d o n t h e G 7 5 opens up new opportunities for separation, the satellites will raise Lanzhou–Haikou Expressway, one of the companies and teams who want to have themselves to their operational orbit. main highways in Guangxi province, the their own dedicated server in North The initial six OneWeb satellites were system has already undergone extensive America with high-quality equipment and successfully orbited by Arianespace on trials during which it successfully prevented round-the-clock support. Our servers are Soyuz Flight VS21 from French Guiana adverse impact to road users following a located in a certified Tier III class data last February. On February 7, 2020, landslip in March 2019. center, and we guarantee access speed Arianespace and its Starsem affiliate Mr Yang Jirong, enterprise applications of at least 200 Mbit/s", - said Andre launched successfully from Baikonour expert at CMCC Guangxi, said: Reitenbach, G-Core Labs managing 34 OneWeb satellites on Soyuz Flight “Immediately upon deployment, the Nokia director. ST27. OneWeb's mission is to deliver IoT solution demonstrated the value it can The infrastructure in Ashburn is also one global communications through a next- deliver. As a leading operator, we are highly of the main points of presence of G-Core generation satellite constellation that will committed to enhancing expressway safety Labs international content delivery bring seamless connectivity to for all road users with 5G technology and network. It allows any company everyone, everywhere. this project is a major step forward in that developing its business online to provide To achieve its purpose, OneWeb is goal.” a premium experience of American building a network composed of low- Using the system, expressway audience interaction with sites, services Earth orbit satellites that will provide management receives real-time reports on and online broadcasts, delivering even high-speed, low latency services to a changes in ground conditions and incline the heaviest content to end users in a wide range of customers in sectors that stability across highway slopes. Upon fraction of a second. include aeronautics, maritime, backhaul indications of a potential landslide, the The functionality of the automatic services, community Wi-Fi, emergency system immediately notifies highway installation of the most popular operating response services and more. Central to management personnel by SMS or phone systems (OS) (Windows and Unix), its mission, OneWeb also will focus on call, enabling appropriate action to be installed when ordering the server, is connecting schools and bridging the taken. A 4G eye-camera deployed on the provided company's dedicated and digital divide for people everywhere. highway slope simultaneously monitors virtual servers. It significantly saves time O n c e d e p l o y e d , t h e O n e We b landslide status for staff members. for system deployment. You can also constellation will enable user terminals Cheng Gang, Executive Vice President of connect your own ISO image and install capable of offering 3G, LTE, 5G and Wi- Nokia Shanghai Bell said: “This is an the necessary OS yourself. All G-Core Fi coverage, providing high-speed outstanding example of the benefits the Labs servers are protected from DDoS access around the world — by air, sea Internet of Things can deliver to improve attacks using G-Core Labs unique and land. IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

OneWeb Satellites — a joint venture Internet grinding to a halt. In a statement, between OneWeb and Airbus Defence M Breton said, “I welcome the very “The Quicklink TX has been fantastic to a n d S p a c e — i s t h e prompt action that Netflix has taken to use. It's simple to use but allows for constellation's prime contractor. The preserve the smooth functioning of the individual channel changes and custom OneWeb spacecraft for Flight ST28 were internet during the COVID19 crisis while configurations. It also integrates easily built in OneWeb Satellites' Florida-based maintaining a good experience for users. into our SDI workflow with the audio series production line dedicated to the Mr Hastings has demonstrated a strong being embedded on the SDI outputs” assembly, integration, and test of the sense of responsibility and solidarity. said Tony Aiello, Director of AV OneWeb satellites. They will be the 41st to We'll keep closely in touch to follow the Engineering and Production at McLean 74th OneWeb satellites to be launched by evolution of the situation together.” Bible Church. Arianespace. “Following the discussions between commissioner Breton and Reed Hastings McLean Bible Church plan to continue FCC hands out more – and given the extraordinary challenges using the Quicklink TX for upcoming raised by the coronavirus – Netflix has congregational meetings and for special temporary spectrum decided to begin reducing bit rates events throughout the year. across all our streams in Europe for 30 days,” the company said in response. Quicklink TX is also available as a AT&T and Verizon have gone back to the “We estimate this will reduce Netflix traffic compact and portable unit with inbuilt FCC for additional special temporary on European networks by around 25 per camera and lighting. The Quicklink TX authorities (STAs) for added spectrum as cent while also ensuring a good quality Skype-in-a-box allows universities and they deal with the increased broadband service for our members.” The corporations to connect to any global load of a pandemic-sequestered populace Commission wants streaming platforms broadcaster in studio grade quality. trying to work and learn and get medical to move to standard definition rather than treatment and play online. high definition for their content during The FCC said it has granted three more peak working hours. Subscribers who OneWeb plans satellite STAs, bringing the total to six. AT&T got pay Netflix a premium for both its high launch from access to some spectrum licensed to Dish definition and ultra high definition for the next 60 days as well as access to services may not be quite as happy with Kazakhstan some AWS-3 spectrum in the FCC's the decision. inventory. Verizon also got access to some O n e W e b p l a n s t o l a u n c h 3 4 of that AWS-3 spectrum. The FCC has communications satellites from been agreeing to sharing arrangements, Quicklink TX allows Kazakhstan, its third such launch of among usual competitors, for both wired McLean Bible Church to satellites made in Florida. The and wireless spectrum. communications company based in “The FCC has been coordinating closely interview pastors and London and Virginia has been mass- with network operators to ensure those missionaries across the producing satellites near Kennedy networks remain up and running," said Space Center since last year. The FCC chairman Ajit Pai. "We have been world company previously launched 40 encouraged by the feedback we have satellites from space centers in received so far both regarding the ability of McLean Bible Church, a non- Kazakhstan and South America. their networks to handle changes in usage denominational church located around Saturday's launch is planned for patterns caused by the coronavirus Washington, D.C, is using the Quicklink Russia's Baikonur Cosmodrome in outbreak and how networks are TX to interview pastors and missionaries Kazakhstan, using Soyuz rockets performing so far." across the world. The Quicklink TX purchased through the French space The Justice Department, Defense assists McLean Bible Church to preach, firm Arianespace. OneWeb said the Department CIO, and NTIA's Office of help motivate and bless the people on the weather for the launch time is expected Spectrum Management all pitched in to gospel frontline. to be favorable. speed the applications. "Rocket is now on the launch pad and we T h e c h u r c h a v e r a g e s 1 3 , 0 0 0 are continuing to prep for our third Netflix and YouTube congregants every weekend across its #OneWebLaunch," according to the multiple locations in Tysons VA, Arlington company agree to reduce bitrate VA, Loudoun VA, Montgomery Country OneWeb is one of several U.S. MD and Prince William VA. companies competing to launch huge during Coronavirus McLean Bible Church have the Quicklink new constellations of satellites to crisis TX (Skype TX) installed in the broadcast provide high-speed reliable Internet room connected directly to a large SDI around the globe. Others include router. The feed is then shared across SpaceX's Starlink, Amazon and Telesat. Netflix and YouTube have agreed to scale tielines into the main worship center. SpaceX has the largest constellation so down their broadcast quality in a bid to From there the feed is easily accessed by far, at 362 satellites, and plans for up to prevent the Internet slowing under the their video switcher and presentation 42,000. weight of additional requests during the switcher through the local room SDI But SpaceX and OneWeb appear to be Coronavirus crisis. It follows a discussion router, this allows the team to pull up aiming at different markets, said Shagun between Netflix CEO Reed Hastings and interviews or do full screen takeovers. Sachdeva, a satellite analyst with the European Union's Internal Market and Built into the control system are special Northern Sky Research. "SpaceX Services Commissioner, Thierry Breton. presets and macros on the video officials have indicated Starlink will be a YouTube has also agreed to scale down switcher, which are all built into the premium product, that they aren't going its video in Europe from high definition to control system, allowing McLean Bible super cheap," Sachdeva said. "With standard definition. Church to quickly bring up and frame the OneWeb, they are going more for rural M Breton had earlier called on streaming picture for the perfect shot. areas, underserved parts of the planet, companies to take action to prevent the and cheaply." IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

OneWeb is a relatively new company that capabilities that deliver such a high level announced its plans to build in Florida in of understanding throughout any content 2016. OneWeb Satellites, a subsidiary distribution chain.” Passage through Northern shipping and a joint venture with European routes and Arctic waters has received a aerospace company Airbus, opened a Bridge Technologies' extensive product boost following the doubling of the factory in 2019. offering ranges from embedded systems connectivity speed of the Iridium Initially, OneWeb founder Greg Wyler and software-based probes to software CertusTM network, says maritime said he would launch with Virgin Galactic, control systems that support all currently communications specialist IEC Telecom. and then signed a deal with Jeff Bezos' commercial available standards and Blue Origin rocket company. But neither media formats, all designed to deliver in- As the shortest sea route between Europe of those companies has launched a depth, intuitive understanding of the end- and the Asia-Pacific region, the Northern payload into space. to-end broadcast process. Sea Route holds immense potential to OneWeb said it is dedicating Saturday's compete with conventional trade lines. launch to the late Russian cosmonaut Integrated Services Monitoring enables There has been a significant increase in Alexei Leonov, who became the first a unique, pre-integrated approach to the maritime traffic across the main transport person to walk in space in 1965. most complex tasks facing the modern corridors in the Arctic, Northern Sea The satellites will be headed to a near- broadcaster, putting automated eyeballs Route in the Russian Federation, the polar orbit about 280 miles high, after on all acquisition, delivery and Northwest Passage in Canada as well as which they will be raised to their final orbit production media streams – all from a the Arctic Bridge from Canada to Europe. of approximately 745 miles. OneWeb single vendor, avoiding the need for In fact in the Canadian Arctic, traffic has Satellites are about the size of a small complex bespoke engineering. tripled between 1990 and 2015. refrigerator. Moreover, cargo volume in the Northern By comparison, Starlink satellites orbit at A turnkey, easy-to-install, complete Sea Route has increased by 40% a height of about 340 miles above the media monitoring system that spans the between 2016 and 2017 Earth, and feature a flat-panel design whole media chain, Integrated Services about the size of a large dinner table. Both Monitoring supports SD, HD, UHD and With the Iridium CertusTM 700 service companies' satellites have solar panels even 8K; it encompasses contribution becoming commercially available at that extend after deployment. streams using various encapsulation speeds of 700 kbps – the fastest L-band The Kármán line that defines space is 62 techniques including TS-encapsulated speed in the industry, Iridium's network miles high, and the International Space JPEG2K and SRT in addition to with pole-to-pole coverage can only serve Station is orbiting Earth at more than 250 traditional IPTV; it embraces the modern to further unlock new opportunities for the miles high. headend with signal acquisition from fleets operating in the North. Fishing terrestrial and satellite sources; and it fleets, commercial ships, and other includes pre-demodulation signal vessels transiting Arctic waters can Integrated services analytics, pre- and post-encoding benefit from enhanced connectivity in monitoring capability analytics for IPTV, cable delivery and these remote and potentially hazardous Remote PHY as well as pre- and post- waters launched by Bridge transcoding to origin for OTT distribution, . Technologies monitored using QoE parameters such as MOS scores. All data is recorded for Many of IEC Telecom's clients operating in the Northern Sea region have recently Bridge Technologies has announced ISM instant retrieval in an easy to use visual switched to the Iridium Certus service. - Integrated Services Monitoring, an all- timeline or formatted as PDF reports that “Vessels operating in this region require embracing suite of tools, designed to are automatically generated and emailed robust solutions that can be relied upon deliver invaluable insights into the to whoever needs them. under harsh weather conditions. Iridium performance of content production, Certus is the only global network able to contribution and distribution networks not “Integrated Services Monitoring meet these requirements,” explains Alf only for engineers charged with day-to- represents the accumulation of our 15+ Stian Mauritz, Managing Director, IEC day operations but for management to years of experience in developing, Telecom Norway. “With this new speed, assess the overall performance of the manufacturing and deploying the most Northern operators can share greater operation. advanced solutions to ensure the levels of data with their shore offices, avail maximum uptime of content production, VOIP calls, and access faster email Integrated Services Monitoring is an contribution and distribution networks exchange,” he adds approach to quality that addresses the around the world,” Frostad continued. multiple layers of the broadcast and “From the network engineer on a remote Iridium CertusTM 700 will also be media cycle – from production through site to personnel at the master control beneficial to the oil and gas sector, which signal acquisition, contribution streams, centre (MCR) who need visibility into has been expanding in the Arctic region. OTT/streaming media, traditional everything that's going on to With more than 40 billion barrels of oil broadcast distribution with DTT or management who require SLAs and produced over the past 40 years and 184 Satellite to picture archiving. other insightful indicators of overall active rigs in 2018, the industry is network performance, Integrated increasingly focusing on innovative ways “ISM provides exactly the set of data Services Monitoring is there to deliver to reduce costs with sustainable gathering tools broadcasters need what they need, when they need it.” practices. Satellite-based technologies throughout the chain – from production to are excellent drivers of operational delivery, uncompressed to compressed.” Satellite network with efficiency with optimized navigation, said Simen K. Frostad, Chairman, Bridge decreased fuel consumption, and better Technologies. “No other company in the fastest L-Band speed crew welfare options network monitoring and analysis space could open up c a n o f f e r s u c h a c o m p l e t e , comprehensive set of automated Northern Sea Route Phase Four selected by IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

witnessed by independent third-party Systems Corporation. “This acquisition U.S. Air Force to adapt observers, represents the critical, supports the strategic expansion of our Maxwell in-space engine industry-first next step for Lynk's product line and further strengthens our ultimate vision to use satellites to ability to deliver comprehensive control for defense needs provide broadband services directly to system solutions for our business over five billion mobile phones on the partners and customers,” said Radeus Phase Four has been awarded an SBIR planet, everywhere. Labs' CEO, Juliet Correnti. Phase I contract by Air Force tech “This is a game changer for the billions accelerator AFWERX, in partnership with of people who own a mobile phone, for With this acquisition, Radeus Labs will the Air Force Research Laboratory and the billions who do not have affordable manufacture and provide support for it's the National Security Innovation Network. connectivity, and for the entire mobile new SSC™ product line as part of its As part of this partnership, beginning in communications industry. Lynk makes SATCOM line of business. The new March 2020, Phase Four will work with the the impossible possible. In the near Radeus SSC™ product line consists of Air Force to adapt its revolutionary future, you will stay connected Beacon Tracking Receivers (BTR), Maxwell in-space propulsion system to everywhere. All the time,” said Charles Frequency Converters, Block Down meet the needs of defense users. Miller, Co-founder and CEO of Lynk. Converters (BDCs) and Low Noise Block Affordable and reliable in-space Converters (LNBs). propulsion is an essential requirement for Lynk's historic test took place on both commercial and defense next- February 24, 2020, using the firm's The SSC™ Beacon Tracking Receiver generation satellite constellations. The patented “cell tower in space” (now Radeus SSC™ BTR) product line, Phase Four radio-frequency thruster technology — low-Earth orbit which has been a mainstay of earth (RFT) is the first solution to address the nanosatellites that connect directly to stations worldwide for nearly 40 years, is cost, manufacturing, and performance unmodified mobile phones. Lynk has the first product line that Radeus Labs is needs of high volume satellite successfully repeated the test multiple placing into production at their facilities in constellations. Its simple architecture times, including with independent Southern California. allows manufacturing to scale up easily, observers. “We are really excited to be able to and accommodates a wide range of solid, This milestone is the culmination of over provide the Radeus SSC™ BTR.” says liquid, and gas propellants. In turn, these a year of satellite-to-phone-on-the- the CTO of Radeus Labs, Ken Cone. features potentially open an even wider ground testing involving multiple “Available immediately, it is also going to range of mission possibilities, including payloads in space. Tyghe Speidel, Co- be an effective starting platform for our missions in deep space and very low Earth founder and Vice President of new monopulse tracking receiver.” orbit. Technology of Lynk and the inventor of the core breakthrough technology The BTR expands the existing satcom Maxwell is a complete in-space propulsion stated, “This is a critical verification of product offerings of the 8200, 2200 and system built on Phase Four's RFT. It our revolutionary radio access network 2300 Antenna Control Systems and also includes power electronics, software, and technology's ability to compensate for provides the option of an external a pressurized storage vessel for 1 kg of the effects of placing the cell tower in tracking receiver from Radeus Labs. xenon, providing over 10,000 Ns of orbit, which mobile standards were not Radeus Labs, Inc., with headquarters impulse. Maxwell is delivered in an designed for.” and manufacturing facilities in Poway, enclosure smaller than 19 cm x 19 cm x 14 CA, is a leader in the design, cm. Customer deliveries began earlier this This breakthrough represents a key manufacturing, and marketing of month. step in advancing Lynk's vision to leading-edge hardware and software "We're proud to be selected by the Air p r o v i d e u n i v e r s a l b r o a d b a n d systems for the defense and SATCOM Force as one of its potential technology connectivity to the over five billion markets. Radeus Labs products are partners. This is a great example of how people who have mobile phones but thoughtfully designed with a focus on Phase Four's commercial success with cannot access wireless signals ease of use, high performance, and Maxwell in the private sector can translate everywhere. Lynk has solved what was sustainability. Our products provide to defense needs," said Beau Jarvis, widely considered an impossible above-average product life spans and CEO. problem in a one trillion-dollar-a-year deliver added value to our customers. global industry — how to provide Our customer service and support are "With space now a contested domain, we connectivity to mobile phones across unrivaled in our industry. For more look forward to collaborating with the Air the planet, when it is cost-prohibitive to information about Radeus Labs and our Force to provide United States space build and operate cell towers high-performance products, visit us at assets with the superior maneuverability everywhere, especially in less RadeusLabs.com. and resiliency required to ensure mission populated areas. Lynk's technology success," added Jason Wallace, Vice solves this problem of providing mobile President of Advanced Development. broadband coverage everywhere on Earth, a $300-400 billion a year Space & Satellite Lynk connects satellite opportunity. Professionals International welcomes directly to standard Radeus Labs Inc mobile phones on Earth its newest corporate announces acquisition members of satellite systems Lynk has successfully connected a satellite in low-Earth orbit to an ordinary corporation product Space & Satellite Professionals mobile phone on Earth. The technical line International (SSPI) has welcomed five breakthrough enabled Lynk to send the Radeus Labs, Inc., announced the new and renewing Corporate Members world's first ever text message from space closure of its acquisition of the company of the association. The companies to a mobile phone. This milestone, product line of SSC, formerly Satellite represent nearly every sector of the IN THE NEWS AMERICAS

Boeing seeks $60 U.S. Space Force. “From our acquisition communications, unlock the mysteries experts at SMC, to the satellite of our solar system, and support life- billion stimulus for US developers at Lockheed Martin, to the saving technology. aerospace industry aircrews at Air Mobility Command, and our range support teams at the 45th Airbus successfully amid COVID-19 crisis Space Wing, we greatly appreciate the collaboration with the ULA team who all completes in orbit contributed to this historic, first National Boeing Co has called for a $60 billion Security Space launch under the U.S. commissioning of lifeline for the struggling U.S. aerospace Space Force,” added Raymond. “On CHEOPS manufacturing industry, which faces huge behalf of the U.S. Space Force and all of losses from the coronavirus pandemic. our joint warfighters who depend on Airbus has received confirmation from protected SATCOM, thank you and ESA of a successful end to the In Orbit Reuters first reported that Boeing was congratulations on today's successful Commissioning (IOC) of CHEOPS after seeking "tens of billions of dollars" in U.S. launch.” the IOC review yesterday. This critical government loan guarantees and other phase was performed by Airbus in Spain assistance as faces it a looming liquidity “Congratulations to the U.S. Space with the support of the Instrument Team crunch due to the coronavirus' impact on Force on liftoff of your first mission,” said (University of Bern), Mission Operation the aviation sector, two people briefed on Tory Bruno, ULA president and CEO. Centre (INTA), Science Operation the matter told Reuters. Boeing “We are proud to be your partner for this Centre (University of Geneva) and ESA. s p o k e s m a n G o r d o n J o h n d r o e historic mission and honored to have The IOC phase started on 7th January subsequently said the company launched the entire Lockheed Martin and over the past two and a half months "supports a minimum of $60 billion in produced AEHF constellation on Atlas V Airbus has conducted the operations to access to public and private liquidity, rockets. We understand the critical verify the performance of the satellite including loan guarantees, for the importance of delivering protected (platform and instrument), the ground aerospace manufacturing industry.” communications to strategic command segment and the science package. and tactical warfighters operating on During this time the main goal was to U.S. airlines and cargo carriers have said ground, sea and air.” consolidate the documentation, they are seeking at least $58 billion in processes and procedures for use loans and grants along with additional tax This mission launched aboard an Atlas during the operational phase. changes, while airports have sought $10 V 551 configuration vehicle, producing billion. Boeing confirmed that it had more than two and a half million pounds ESA recognised the great job done by completed the drawdown of the rest of a of thrust at liftoff. The most powerful in the Airbus teams and stated there were $13.8 billion line of credit it had secured the Atlas V fleet, the Atlas V 551 includes no issues preventing routine operations last month. a 5-meter Payload Fairing (PLF) and from starting and confirmed hand-over of Boeing's total debt nearly doubled to stands at 197 ft. tall. The Atlas booster the mission operations from Airbus to $27.3 billion in 2019, as it compensated for this mission was powered by the RD INTA and the mission consortium. airlines and grappled with additional AMROSS RD-180 engine. Aerojet Fernando Varela, Head of Space production costs for the 737 MAX even as Rocketdyne provided the five AJ-60A Systems in Spain, said: “The in-orbit the grounding prevented it from delivering solid rocket boosters (SRBs) and delivery of the CHEOPS satellite is the the aircraft to buyers. Reuters reported RL10C-1 engine for the Centaur upper culmination of the Airbus participation in Airbus has about 16 billion euros ($17.60 stage. the programme. It is the first European billion) in cash and needs some 5.5 billion exoplanetary mission and the first ESA euros a month. With the launch of AEHF-6, the RL10 mission built by Airbus in Spain. The engine has flown 500 times, including professionalism of the technical and hundreds of times on ULA and ULA engineering teams at Airbus was key to ULA successfully heritage vehicles. this success.” launches first National CHEOPS will be controlled by INTA and “Thank you to the Aerojet Rocketdyne the mission consortium (University of Security space mission team for your outstanding partnership,” Geneva and University of Bern). for the U.S. space force said Gary Wentz, ULA vice president of Nevertheless, Airbus is also ready to G o v e r n m e n t a n d C o m m e r c i a l assist during the operational phase for A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket Programs. “The RL10 is integral to our the whole mission life. carrying the sixth Advanced Extremely unique Centaur upper stage, supporting High Frequency (AEHF) communications ULA's launches of military, civil and CHEOPS marks the first time that Airbus satellite for the U.S. Space Force's Space commercial satellites and has sent in Spain has been the prime contractor and Missile Systems Center lifted off from spacecraft to explore every planet in our for the whole mission, from satellite Space Launch Complex-41 on March 26 solar system.” development, through launch, to LEOP at 4:18 p.m. EDT. This marks the 83rd a n d I O C . T h e e n t i r e m i s s i o n successful launch of an Atlas V rocket, ULA's next launch is USSF-7 in support development was completed in record 138th launch for ULA and first mission for of the U.S. Space Force in May 2020. time without delays and met the very the U.S. Space Force. With more than a century of combined tight budget. To do this, Airbus managed heritage, ULA is the world's most a team of 24 companies from 11 “The success of today's launch is the experienced and reliable launch service European countries, seven of them culmination of years of dedication, hard provider. ULA has successfully Spanish, confirming Airbus as the driving work and teamwork with several of our launched more than 135 missions to force behind the space industry in Spain. mission partners,” said Gen. Jay orbit that provide Earth observation Raymond, Chief of Space Operations, c a p a b i l i t i e s , e n a b l e g l o b a l

AFRICA

With advert placement, you support the publication of this magazine in Africa. Advertising in Spacewatchafrica will offer your institution/organisation a cost-effective platform to reach your potential clients and business partners. We offer you exclusive contact with your business partners, government officials, academic and industry sectors.

SPACEWATCHAFRICA MAGAZINE MOST CURRENT ADVERTISEMENT RATES

4-color Advertising Rates Colour Dimension Back Cover Full Page $3,000 9.5” x 13” Inside Back Cover Full Page $2,000 9.5” x 13” Inside Front Cover Full Page $2,000 9.5” x 13” Inside Full Page $2,300 9.5” x 13” Inside Half Page $1.250 4.75”x 13” Double Spread $5,000 Special page 2(inside front cover) and 3 $6,000 Two adjoining centre page $5,000 Front page earpiece $1,500 (One third) $750 4.75” x 6.5” Special Report (including editorial) $3,000 Full cover page spotlight (special) $15,000

Advertisement placements on African Satellite Communications Yearbook attracts discounted rates, 20% off the above rates.

Hurry now and book your advert on Spacewatchafrica (onine and hard copy edition) as well as the African Satellite Communications Yearbook and benefit from the industry lowest rates while helping your organization reach the widest audience possible across Africa, middle east and beyond.

An additional 30% discount off the advertising rates above will be given to an advertiser who reserves for a minimum of six months (6 advertisements) or more.

All dimensions are listed as width by depth in millimeters (mm). Build pages to trim size and if bleed, extend dimensions beyond page edge by 10mm. Keep live matter 6mm from trim size. Preferred file formats are EPS, JPG or PDF.

For placement enquiries, please email us at [email protected], or call +2348036471114, 7084706167