Sateliot, a European satellite telecommunications operator, has successfully launched five new satellites for its 5G NTN IoT network. The launch, dubbed "Draconis," brings the total number of satellites launched by the company to 11 since its inception. This mission aims to increase the frequency of connection and service capacity in areas without terrestrial mobile coverage. The satellites will enable Sateliot to reduce the interval between satellite passes and increase connection possibilities for devices.
The five new satellites feature technological improvements compared to the four satellites launched in 2024. These upgrades include an optimized payload, a more reliable and efficient onboard data storage system, and improved versions of the central computer and attitude control system. The satellites also have more resilient memory systems, capable of withstanding harsh space conditions, including radiation. Each satellite measures 20 x 10 x 35 centimeters, weighs 10 kg, and has an operational lifespan of five years.
The satellites, manufactured by Alén Space and integrated into the launcher by Exolaunch, will orbit at an altitude of 510 km. They will incorporate Sateliot's developed connectivity technology for its 5G NTN IoT network. These satellites function as telecommunications towers in space, extending the coverage of mobile operators through wholesale agreements that enable them to provide IoT services in areas beyond the reach of terrestrial networks.
Sateliot's constellation will comprise over 500 satellites, evolving with successive technological generations, from massive IoT to critical services with higher capacity, including D2D capabilities. According to Jaume Sanpera, CEO and co-founder of Sateliot, the "Draconis" mission demonstrates the company's current position, having validated the technology and now increasing service capacity and regularity to evolve alongside mobile operators.
The goal is to make satellite connectivity a natural extension of terrestrial networks where coverage is non-existent and develop more critical and resilient services using interoperable infrastructure based on 3GPP standards. Sateliot aims to build a European telecommunications infrastructure founded on its own technology, with a global ambition. The company recently gathered employees, investors, partners, and key players in Barcelona to share the "Draconis" mission, which was broadcast live.
A selection of high-resolution photos from the event is available for download and media use. Sateliot, founded in 2018 and based in Barcelona, has deployed the first LEO satellite constellation based on the 3GPP standard, enabling commercial NB-IoT NTN devices to connect directly from space with intermittent coverage. The company promotes secure and accessible connectivity and plans to launch its next-generation "Tritó" satellites in 2027.
Sateliot's technology seamlessly integrates terrestrial and satellite networks to provide affordable 5G IoT connectivity where conventional infrastructure cannot reach, while evolving towards real-time 5G NR D2D access. As a strategic player in European digital sovereignty, the company is pioneering 5G NR D2D from space to bridge coverage gaps and democratize connectivity for dual-use applications worldwide.
Key points
- Sateliot has successfully launched five new satellites to enhance its 5G NTN IoT network.
- The satellites feature technological improvements, including optimized payload and onboard data storage systems.
- Sateliot aims to make satellite connectivity a natural extension of terrestrial networks, promoting secure and accessible connectivity.
