ST Engineering iDirect Releases Multi-Orbit Capability

 December 10, 2024

ST Engineering iDirect, has released and is testing a new technology that enables tracking and switching between Geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) and Non-Geosynchronous Earth orbit (NGSO) satellites.

A seamless transitions between orbits, the breakthrough technology features a single tracking algorithm that provides operators with greater flexibility, enhancing connectivity in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Currently undergoing on-orbit satellite testing (OSAT) with a major satellite operator, this capability enables services beyond GEO to true multi-orbit connectivity, playing a vital role in industries such as aviation and maritime, where uninterrupted connectivity across remote regions is essential.

ST Engineering iDirect’s multi-orbit and switching technology is a scalable architecture that leverages an innovative tracking algorithm to deliver the necessary frequency and timing compensation for satellites in all orbits, enabling intelligent switching based on optimized service characteristics. This ensures fast and seamless transitions between satellite orbits, maintaining continuous service for end users. ST Engineering iDirect’s dynamic beam mapping technology guarantees rapid network acquisition and reliable beam switching, which is critical for maintaining connectivity as satellites traverse different orbital paths.

Sridhar Kuppanna, Senior Vice President of Engineering at ST Engineering iDirect, said, “Achieving seamless connectivity across multiple orbits has been a long-standing goal for the satellite industry, and we are proud to lead this breakthrough. Our current validation testing with a leading global operator sets a new standard, providing the flexibility, scalability, and performance needed to meet the demands of tomorrow’s connected world.”

The multi-orbit tracking and switching technology is already available for all customers on ST Engineering iDirect's Velocity platform and will be available on Intuition, its next-generation cloud-native satellite ground system.