First regenerative 5G mmWave satellite payload

Constellation Technologies & Operations (CTO) in France has developed the world’s first regenerative 5G mmWave payload for high-speed broadband in orbit. This innovative payload is designed for Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellites, operating below 400km, to deliver low latency and high-speed data connectivity. In comparison, popular broadband satellites like StarLink from SpaceX currently orbit at 550km, highlighting the cutting-edge nature of CTO's technology.

The company successfully secured €9.3m in funding to advance its vision of creating a constellation of VLEO satellites. This constellation aims to empower telecom operators to offer high-speed, low-latency internet access from space, revolutionizing the way connectivity is delivered globally.

Following rigorous ground testing under simulated space conditions, the first operational regenerative payload, known as the Early Test, has been seamlessly integrated into the ION satellite platform provided by Italian supplier D-orbit. This integration paves the way for the payload to function effectively in orbit, setting the stage for a new era in satellite-based internet connectivity.

One notable aspect of CTO's achievement is the planned launch of the regenerative 5G mmWave payload into space in June 2025. This milestone will mark the inaugural utilization of the 5G mmWave spectrum above 24GHz for transmitting high-speed, low-latency internet data via satellite. While 5G mmWave technology can offer impressive bandwidth capabilities of up to 10Gbit/s, the longer distance from orbit may impact the actual link speed.

Looking ahead, CTO envisions a comprehensive constellation comprising 1,500 to 3,400 satellites, with the initial two satellites slated for launch as early as the upcoming year. The subsequent satellites are scheduled to be deployed between 2027 and 2030, with plans for them to be self-cleaning due to atmospheric drag causing them to burn up over time.

The successful development and integration of the Early Test payload represent a significant milestone for CTO, validating the company's essential hardware and software technologies for high-speed connectivity. Charles Delfieux, the CEO of CTO, emphasized the groundbreaking nature of their regenerative 5G mmWave payload, highlighting its pivotal role in bridging terrestrial and space connectivity for the benefit of telecom operators worldwide.