Thales Alenia Space and LeoSat Enterprises have announced the signature of the phase B contract for the development of a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. It will offer very-high-speed broadband, low latency and secure global connectivity, setting a new standard in satellite network performance.

Following the initial phase resulting in the preliminary definition of the LeoSat constellation, which validated the technical feasibility of the system and its compatibility with other Ka-band services, the current phase B concerns the detailed definition of the overall system architecture and performance specifications, including both the ground and space segments. It will also provide the framework needed to set up an optimized organization for production and deployment.

The LeoSat constellation will comprise from 78 to 108 high-power Ka-band satellites in low Earth orbit, providing global service for large corporations and government agencies. Through the use of tracking spot beams and specific anti-interference techniques, the constellation is designed to prevent interference with geostationary satellite orbiting systems (GSO) and non-geostationary satellite orbiting systems operating in the same frequency band (NGSO). The system is also designed to support and co-exist with anticipated terrestrial use of Ka frequencies.

LeoSat satellites will feature innovative technologies and for the first time, bring together a range of tried and tested systems, including optical inter-satellite links, gigabit class, onboard processors, flexible steerable antennas, and RF (Radio-Frequency) over PCB (Printed Circuit Boards). They will use the enhanced EliteBusTM platform, offering higher payload power and mass while optimizing launch cost and schedule.