SSG claims first voice call over nano-satellite network ASX-listed Sky and Space Global is claiming a world first with the transmission of a voice call over its nano-satellite network using a standard smartphone with a proprietary application. The call was part of a series of tests that also included instant messages, voice recording and image transfers over its 3 Diamonds service. Sky and Space launched the three nano-satellites in late June and plans to have a constellation of 200 nano-satellites by 2020. Coverage will include equatorial areas of South America, Central Africa, Southeast Asia and into the northern part of Australia. Until recently, nano-satellites have been predominantly used for earth observation and imagery. However, Sky and Space is taking advantage of advancements in miniature space technology to offer low-cost communications. “Demonstrating that our nano-satellites are capable of facilitating services such as sending a text message and conducting a voice call at a very low cost is an important step forward on our route to providing affordable communication services,” said CEO Meir Moalem. As well as the communication testing, the company said it has also demonstrated that its services can provide indoor connectivity via the installation of RF capability on a rooftop or another outdoor area and connecting it to an indoor Wi-Fi hot-spot to add multiple users to the network. Sky and Space Global recently signed its first binding commercial contract with SatSpace Africa, a pan-African communications company. It said it is now working towards concluding further binding commercial contracts with other wholesale data operators. Geoff Long, Commsday