Sky and Space Global Ltd (ASX:SAS) has signed a binding agreement with Italian space system company, D-Orbit, to provide launch and deployment services for the roll-out of its nanosatellite constellation.
The partnership will allow Sky and Space to maximise the operational capabilities and potential revenue generation for its nanosatellites.
D-Orbit offers a unique launch and deployment service specifically tailored for nanosatellites.
Through precision deployment and fast dispersion, D-Orbit aims to allow space missions to start faster, and in optimal operational conditions.
Following the industry-leading success of the first phone call in space facilitated by nanosatellites, Sky and Space Global is planning to launch a constellation of 200 nanosatellites by 2020.
The constellation will provide full coverage of the equatorial areas of South America, Central Africa, and Southeast Asia.
The new agreement with D-Orbit follows the announcement of the next generation of Sky and Space’s nanosatellites, Pearls, unveiled at the International Astronautical Congress in Adelaide in September.
Sky and Space’s new satellite will include key features such as 3 meters span of sun-tracking solar panels and circa 150 watts of power, enabling 24/7 payload operations.
The Pearls development program continues as scheduled and is expected to be fully deployed and operational by 2020.