Space Compass and SWISSto12 sign contract for first commercial GEO optical data relay satellite
- Satellite Evolution Group
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Space Compass Corporation and SWISSto12 SA have executed a procurement contract for the first GEO optical data relay satellite.
This agreement represents a major milestone toward the realization of Space Compass’s optical data relay service. With high‑speed, high‑capacity optical data relay service, Space Compass aims to transform Earth Observation from just a tracking record into a real-time decision-making tool.
For SWISSto12, the contract represents further validation of the company’s ability to unlock a wide range of space missions with its small GEO satellite platform, integrating bespoke and differentiated payload technology that now includes optical communication capabilities.
Emile de Rijk, CEO, SWISSto12 said: “We are delighted about this partnership with Space Compass and our shared vision to build multi-orbit, secure space infrastructure that supports some of the world’s most important space missions, such as earth observation. By hosting optical communications payloads for LEO-GEO data relay, HummingSat once again proves its versatility and its outsized impact in enabling purposeful innovation in space.”
Hiromi Komatsu, Co‑CEO, Space Compass said: “The execution of this procurement contract represents a critical milestone toward the realization of our optical data relay service. By leveraging high speed, high-capacity optical data-relay architecture, we aim to enable faster and smarter decision making through real-time Earth observation insights. This first satellite will play a pivotal role in establishing a new space communications infrastructure.”
Outlook
Through collaboration with SWISSto12 in the development of the optical data relay service, Space Compass aims to address social challenges by enabling more timely and smarter use of Earth observation data, including disaster response and public safety.