Certain remote and rural locations across Britian still face challenges where satellites offer the only practical solution for connectivity. These areas, often characterised by difficult terrain and sparse populations, make traditional infrastructure costly and impractical.
Now, the UK Space Agency is working with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the European Space Agency’s (ESA) telecommunications research programme to help close the digital divide.
The new funding call aims to select partners for three projects focused on delivering future satellite services. One of these projects, the Nomadic Multi-orbit User Terminal Demonstrator, will provide portable gigabit internet speeds, with terminals designed to be mounted on vehicles to improve connectivity for users such as local authorities, farmers, and emergency services. It will use the signals from satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Orbit (GEO) to create a robust, flexible and high-speed communication system.
In two remote islands in Shetland and Northern Ireland, two other projects will test hybrid networks to see if they could be used to support further locations unable to connect to traditional networks.
The Rathlin Island Service Demonstrator project in Northern Ireland plans to combine LEO and GEO satellite terminals with wireless/mobile technologies, possibly including 5G/6G, for a comprehensive solution to the island’s inconsistent network quality.
On Shetland Island Papa Stour, a project proposes to test a hybrid satellite-wireless solution using LEO and GEO terminals to boost connectivity for residents and tourists.
Commenting on the announcement, Paul Bullock, chief product officer, Wireless Logic, said: “Reliable connectivity is a necessity; boosting the UK’s digital infrastructure is essential to tackling some of the most pressing connectivity challenges. With these pilot projects, the UK Space Agency and its partners will be using a combination of satellite technology, in both LEO and GEO, and mobile networks to test innovative new services.
“Combining cellular and satellite connectivity offers the best of both worlds, with each technology delivering distinct advantages. While cellular remains a cornerstone for many applications, the addition of satellite connectivity is a game-changer – especially in challenging cross-border environments and areas of weak coverage. We have already seen this approach within the IoT industry, resulting in resilient mobile connectivity regardless of location.
“With this added investment, the UK Space Agency is validating hybrid connectivity as a viable solution to address the digital divide. Working together will be key to addressing these connectivity gaps to ensure that vital services and industries can continue to thrive – whether that’s healthcare, education or agriculture.”
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