Французька компанія CTO (Constellation Technologies & Operations), which is engaged in the development of satellite 5G communications in very low Earth orbit (VLEO), announced cooperation with TDF, the operator of the largest network of hosting platforms independent of operators in France, for telecom infrastructure. This partnership aims to integrate satellite communications with terrestrial telecommunications networks and expand emergency communications capabilities.
Technology testing and VLEO expansion:
- CTO and TDF will start testing the use of frequencies by mobile operators to provide satellite 5G communication.
- As part of the agreement, ground gateways are planned to be deployed at TDF facilities, which will allow to provide a reverse channel of communication between satellites and terrestrial networks.
- Thanks to the cooperation, CTO will provide mobile operators with satellite communication, and TDF — infrastructure on the ground.
Satellite network launch and prospects.
IN 2023 році CTO отримала $10 million investments from a French public fund and Expansion Ventures to develop a constellation of 1500 satellites, which will be placed at a height 375 km.
- The test payload will be launched into orbit in June 2025 year aboard the SpaceX Falcon rocket 9.
- The first two mass satellites 350 kg will be launched into orbit 2026 year.
- To 2029 the company plans to deploy a full satellite network for global coverage.
Emergency communications and security:
- 36 satellites in equatorial orbit will be sufficient to create an emergency communication system in case of natural disasters.
- Intersatellite connections will allow the signal to be transmitted between islands or regions, where the ground infrastructure remained intact.
- The TDF will also provide local specialists to rapidly deploy the network in crisis situations.
CTO and TDF collaboration lays the groundwork for satellite 5G integration into telecommunications networks and strengthens communications resilience in emergency environments. This partnership contributes to the development of the latest technologies and preparation for the global expansion of satellite communication services.
Source: https://spacenews.com/french-vleo-5g-startup-strikes-telecoms-infrastructure-partnership/