Satellite constellation for broadband in the Arctic
Traditional solutions for broadband communication via satellite are mainly based on geostationary satellites. These are satellites that are located above the equator and provide communication coverage to large parts of the Earth’s surface. Communication via satellite requires that the user terminal has a clear view of the satellite. In areas north of the 75° N , geostationary satellites are too low above – or even below – the horizon that communication does not work. Broadband via satellite in these areas has therefore not been possible. Space Norway’s new satellite constellation in a highly elliptical orbit over the Arctic is about to change this.
Digitisation of shipping
The VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) is a system under development designed to contribute to e-navigation and digitisation of shipping. In 2015, Space Norway, in partnership with Kongsberg Seatex and FFI, won a contract for the development of a prototype VDES payload. Since then, the company has established a leading role internationally in specification, development and testing of the VDES system. The focus has been on the system’s satellite component. With the advantages of the VDES system, there is reason to expect that the system will become an important communication platform for global ship traffic and an important contribution to increased safety and digitisation of the shipping industry.
Operational infrastructure
Read more about the fibre connection between the mainland and Longyearbyen on Svalbard, and the satellite connection to the Troll station.