NIGCOMSAT partners with INFRATEL AFRICA to enhance rural connectivity and digital economy in Nigeria using satellite tech. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Ltd continues to assert its leadership as a provider of satellite communications infrastructure by securing a new contract with INFRATEL AFRICA, a major telecom company engaged in a rural infrastructure backhaul project

This project will transition 100 locations to the NigComSat-1R Ka band hub platform, significantly enhancing rural connectivity and furthering the digital economy goals of the current administration.

Enhancing digital inclusion 

The NigComSat-1R satellite will support businesses by expanding telecom networks and improving connectivity solutions. Managing director NIGCOMSAT Ltd, Nkechi Jane Egerton-Idehen, remarked, “The collaboration with INFRATEL AFRICA is a welcome development as NIGCOMSAT Ltd is now placed to claim its rightful position in the industry.”

"And together we are making significant progress in delivering services in the areas of Transponder lease, broadband internet, broadcast service and other turnkey solutions,’” Egerton-Idehen added at the signing of the agreement between the two companies.

The managing director noted that all the people she is currently working with, are all internal staff, which shows the level of competencies on ground. She assured INFRATEL AFRICA that NIGCOMSAT Ltd in recent time upgraded its infrastructure to meet the world standard for service delivery.

INFRATEL AFRICA is connecting unserved and underserved communities to the global digital landscape, promoting inclusivity and digital equality by leveraging its infrastructure, expertise, and technology as a leading telecommunication infrastructure service provider in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.

This, among other goals, is achieved by providing technology solutions to drive transformational services such as Agency Banking, Telemedicine, e-learning, e-government and Solar based cold rooms within the rural communities, utilising strategic alliances with technical partners to deliver value to clients and enhance communication across Africa, bridging gaps regardless of social class or location.

Eutelsat and Seraphim aim to enhance global connectivity, Earth observation, and data services. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Eutelsat Group has announced its participation in Seraphim Space’s second venture capital fund, SSV II

This investment is intended to drive technological innovation in the space industry by supporting the dynamic start-ups within Seraphim’s portfolio.

Innovating space connectivity

Through this collaboration, Eutelsat Group and Seraphim aim to enhance the development of advanced capabilities to address the increasing demand for global connectivity, Earth observation, and advanced data services. This investment highlights Eutelsat Group’s commitment to staying at the cutting edge of innovation and backing emerging technologies poised to revolutionise the space sector.

SSV II will particularly emphasise the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for space data, in-orbit computing, and space-enabled communications.

Both Eutelsat Group and Seraphim Space are excited to embark on this promising partnership, setting the stage for significant advancements in the space industry and beyond.

“We are excited to invest into Seraphim Space, a leading global player in space technology investment. This partnership allows us to closely engage with groundbreaking companies, enhancing our capacity to innovate and deliver next-generation connectivity solutions. We look forward to working with Seraphim and its portfolio of start-ups to shape the future of satellite communications and space services,” said Guillaume Scottez, chief innovation officer at Eutelsat Group.

Mark Boggett, CEO of Seraphim Space, commented, “We are thrilled to strengthen Seraphim Space’s heavyweight industry and corporate backing with the addition of Eutelsat Group, a trailblaser in satellite communications and a strong advocate for NewSpace. We are looking forward to working together to amplify our ability to support pioneering space companies that are driving significant advancements in the space sector. Together, we are well-positioned to support the next wave of innovation in satellite infrastructure, services and beyond.”

Namibia Spaceport approved by Eos Capital, led by Q-KON Namibia, to boost satellite communication, enhance digital inclusion, and foster economic growth. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

The Namibia Spaceport project has received approval from Eos Capital, managers of the Namibia Infrastructure Development and Investment Fund (NIDIF) 

Spearheaded by Q-KON Namibia, this innovative initiative signifies a major step forward for the country.

The project, known as the Namibia Spaceport, while not a traditional spaceport, will serve as a crucial hub for satellite communication networks, providing ground infrastructure and advanced services to global satellite operators. It will offer the following select services:

1) Ground Gateway Terminal Hosting: This involves providing essential infrastructure for hosting Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation Ground Gateway Terminals. It includes land for antenna farms, civil works, fiber connectivity, power supply, facilities monitoring, equipment hosting, infrastructure services, and on-demand first-line support services.

2) Earth Observation Downlink Services: The project will facilitate the downloading of crucial data and images from orbiting satellites, enhancing earth observation capabilities and scientific research. Additionally, it will provide access to high-resolution satellite images in schools and universities, serving as a valuable educational resource. Students can utilise these images to analyze changes in land use, monitor deforestation, or study the impacts of climate change on various ecosystems.

3) Tracking, Telemetry, and Control (TT&C): The Spaceport will play a vital role in the African network of TT&C stations. These stations monitor and control satellites orbiting over the continent.

Fostering Namibian Innovation

“We anticipate announcing the next steps in the coming months,” remarked Dr Dawie de Wet, CEO of Q-KON.

Namibia’s minister of information and communications technology, Emma Theofelus, stated, "The Namibia Spaceport represents a monumental stride towards harnessing the vast potential of space technology for the growth of Namibia and Africa’s communication capabilities." She also noted that this project is a key component of Namibia’s National Space Science and Technology Policy, which was launched in June 2021.

“The project shows Namibia’s commitment to space exploration, innovation, and sustainable development. With a strategic focus on collaboration, capacity building, and technological advancement, the Namibia Spaceport will make our country a worthy player in the African space arena,” Theofelus explained.

Frederico Van Wyk, chief investment officer of Eos Capital, emphasised that approving the Namibia Spaceport project highlights their dedication to enhancing digital inclusion and connectivity throughout the country, promoting economic growth and innovation in Namibia. This investment aligns with NIDIF’s broader strategy to develop the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in the nation.

“This landmark initiative aligns with Eos Capital’s mission to facilitate strategic investments that propel Namibia into the future and earn positive returns to investors,” Van Wyk added.

Eutelsat's first LEO satellite generation earns platinum SSR rating, underscoring its commitment to sustainable space operations. (Image source: Eutelsat Group)

Eutelsat Group has announced that its first generation of over 600 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites has earned a platinum rating in the Space Sustainability Rating (SSR), highlighting the company's strong commitment to responsible space usage 

Initially conceived at the World Economic Forum (WEF), the SSR aims to mitigate space debris creation, minimise satellite collision risks, and ensure safe and sustainable space operations.

An international consortium, including experts from the European Space Agency, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, BryceTech, and the University of Texas at Austin, developed the rating methodology. The SSR is implemented by eSpace – EPFL Space Center, which aims to recognise and encourage sustainable practices in the space industry.

The SSR evaluates six modules: Mission Index (impact of spacecraft on operational risk), Collision Avoidance Capabilities, Data Sharing, Detectability, Identification and Trackability, Application of Design and Operation Standards, and the use of future External Services.

Eutelsat Group surpassed the 80% threshold to achieve the highest-level platinum rating, demonstrating the Group’s dedication to sustainable design and operation of its satellite constellation.

"With our increased presence in both LEO and geostationary orbit (GEO), we remain committed to the sustainable and responsible use of space” said Eva Berneke, CEO of Eutelsat Group. “We are honoured to receive SSR’s recognition and congratulations to the entire team for their hard work and dedication to sustainable and safe operations."