- Starion Technologies NV is leading the development of a radio frequency (RF) spectrum monitoring SmallSat and cloud-based signal processing project as the first phase of the company’s European RF Spectrum Monitoring Service (ESMS), supported by the Belgian Science Policy Office (Belspo) and the European Space Agency’s (ESA’s) Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S), an Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems programme line within ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications directorate.
- The mission payload, which results from a collaboration between Aerospacelab (design) and Starion (embedded software), be hosted on an Aerospacelab Versatile Satellite Platform (VSP-150) spacecraft, which will use a new water propulsion system from ArianeGroup, set for launch in 2027.
- ESMS data will be securely stored and processed in a European cloud infrastructure and the information product delivered to clients via a secure web-based application.
PRESS RELEASE
Starion Technologies NV has started development of an innovative RF spectrum monitoring service to support regulated use of the RF spectrum by providing data to the relevant authorities/authorised users for identifying illegal or unauthorised activities on land, at sea or in the air. ESMS will use a SmallSat with a Starion/Aerospacelab-designed payload capable of monitoring the radio frequency spectrum from 400MHz to 24GHz to demonstrate the potential of a secure cloud-based service for Europe. Starion is developing the ESMS infrastructure with high standard of security to guarantee the availability, integrity and confidentiality of the acquired data.
The initial focus will be on 5G monitoring, with other services developed later as required.
As prime contractor, Starion will lead the project and develop the payload processing software and candidate spectrum monitoring products. Aerospacelab, a leading satellite manufacturer headquartered in Belgium, will build and operate the spacecraft – a SmallSat measuring 100 x 60 x 60cm based on its Versatile Satellite Platform. The VSP will be adapted to incorporate ArianeGroup’s innovative water propulsion system, which, in addition to being ‘really green’, has a very high specific impulse compared with state-of-the-art mono-propellant technology based on hydrazine, and simplifies ground handling and transportation.
Nicola Mann, Starion Deputy Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted to start developing ESMS to show how we can fulfil a key European requirement to monitor use of the RF spectrum, particularly because of the need to ensure continuous spectrum availability for vital 5G-based services.
“This project will make use of a broad range of Starion’s capabilities, including expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), model-based system engineering (MBSE) using our CDP4-COMET platform, data engineering and security – all with the aim of providing actionable information to users in Europe who have different interests and requirements.
“ESMS will provide us with the necessary technological insight and progress to move further towards an end goal of a future spectrum monitoring constellation and a successful business.”
The satellite payload will include two antennas that cover the 400MHz–7.2GHz and 7.2–24GHz frequency bands, plus a payload electronics subassembly – all designed and developed by Aerospacelab and Starion using commercial off-the-shelf options where possible.
Benoit Deper, Founder and CEO of Aerospacelab, said: “This partnership with Starion gives us the opportunity to further demonstrate the adaptability of our Versatile Satellite Platform. We are maturing our approach using COTS through the co-development of the payload, and then integrating it onto our satellite platform which uses a new form of propulsion. It will benefit future missions.“
Patrick Kingsbury, ArianeGroup Vice President ‘Orbital Products, Equipment and Services’, added: “This very effective cooperation with Starion and ASL will allow ArianeGroup to show the efficiency and high performance of our new propulsion system on a first telecommunication application.”
The satellite, which will operate in a sun synchronous orbit, will be capable of collecting around 40TB of data every day: therefore, to optimise use of the downlink capacity, data will be pre-processed on board to remove noise and unwanted frequencies and to compress the data.
Starion’s team will develop algorithms to extract valuable information and identify behaviours from the downloaded RF signals. They will then use their expertise in developing intuitive, web-based front-ends and multi-tiered systems for the customers to create dashboards or other interfaces as required for their needs.
“ESA is proud to support innovative initiatives promoted by European Industries like Starion and supported by ESA Member States’ through our 4S programme. A sustainable use of the radio frequency spectrum is a priority for the satcom community,” said Christophe Allemand, Head of Safety & Security from Space Programme Office at ESA.
Further information
About ESA’s Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S) programme
ESA is Europe’s gateway to space, coordinating the financial and intellectual resources of its Member States to conduct space programmes and activities. Part of Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES), ESA’s Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S) strategic programme line aims to develop innovative secure satellite communication systems, integrating them with terrestrial networks where relevant. These systems enhance the safety, resilience and security of our critical infrastructures and applications, including transportation across land, air and sea. Additionally, they support governmental operations such as border control and law enforcement.
Learn more at connectivity.esa.int/space-systems-safety-and-security-4s
Contact details: Isabelle Roels, VP Marketing and Communications (i.roels@stariongroup.eu)