Empowering Telecom Operators with Space-Based 5G Internet Connectivity

Founded in 2022, Constellation Technologies & Operations is developing a constellation of satellites to empower telecom operators to provide high-speed, low-latency internet from space, complementing terrestrial networks. I recently connected with Charles Delfieux, CEO and founder to find out how they plan to make universal access to high-performance, affordable, sustainable internet is a reality.

Q: Can you provide a overview of Constellation Technologies & Operations?

A: Constellation Technologies & Operations is a French NewSpace/Telecom startup founded in 2022 with a mission to provide universal connectivity from space. By developing a unique broadband constellation of telecommunications satellites, we aim to empower telecom operators to offer high-speed, low-latency internet services to their clients as a complement to their terrestrial networks. Our vision is to deliver high-performance, affordable, sustainable internet services to underserved areas, leveraging the Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) and the 5G spectrum already allocated to telcos. We are backed by key investors, including Expansion Ventures and Bpifrance, and are at the forefront of innovation in the space connectivity sector. 

Q: You recently received €9.3M as part of the France 2030 plan (Expansion). How will this assist with the proof-of-concept tests? 

A: The €9.3M seed funding is critical to achieving several key milestones in our roadmap. It will primarily enable the completion of the detailed engineering design for our first two satellite prototypes, as well as end-to-end testing of our connectivity service. This will include both ground and in-orbit tests, which are crucial to demonstrating the viability of our service. Furthermore, the funding will support the integration of our payload onto a third party spacecraft, scheduled for launch in June 2025, allowing us to conduct our first proof-of-concept tests in space. 

Q: By developing a B2B2C constellation, you are differentiating yourself from other players in this market. What made you take this approach? 

A: Unlike companies like Starlink, which sell directly to consumers, we are taking a B2B2C approach by partnering with telecom operators. This strategy allows us to leverage the existing infrastructure and sales distribution networks of telcos and offer them a competitive advantage in the growing space-based internet market. By working directly with telcos, we help them extend their reach to remote and underserved regions, all while using the 5G spectrum they already have. This collaborative model also allows us to share subscription revenues, which incentivizes telecom operators to adopt our solution without requiring them to build their own satellite constellations.

Q: Your constellation will be in VLEO (Very Low Earth Orbit). What benefits do you get from being in this orbit?

A: Operating in VLEO, around 375 km above the Earth, offers several key advantages. First, the proximity to the Earth enables lower latency in communications, which is critical for some use cases. Second, being in VLEO allows us to use smaller and more affordable user terminals thanks to more favorable link budgets, which helps reduce costs for end-users. Additionally, satellites in VLEO experience natural atmospheric drag, which means they deorbit naturally after their operational 7-year lifespan, reducing the risk of space debris, making our approach more environmentally sustainable. 

Q: 5G terrestrial spectrum is also being repurposed for space-based connectivity. Are there any regulatory hurdles in doing this?

A: Repurposing 5G terrestrial spectrum for space-based connectivity does present some regulatory challenges, primarily due to the need to ensure that satellite communications do not interfere with existing terrestrial networks. We are actively working to ensure that our technology operates within the required spectrum allocations and meets all necessary licensing requirements in partnerships with telecom operators. As the convergence of satellite and terrestrial networks becomes more prevalent, regulatory frameworks are evolving to accommodate this new reality, and we are closely monitoring and engaging in these discussions to ensure compliance. 

Q: How many satellites do you require in your constellation for it to become operational/total size? 

A: Our business model is based on approximately 1,500 satellites to provide global coverage. However, we can begin offering services with just six launches, which will cover specific latitudes and provide a limited but operational and commercialisable service. This phased approach allows us to scale up gradually while still offering meaningful services to telecom operators and end users in the early stages of the constellation’s deployment.  

Q: What are the key markets that you are targeting? 

A: Consumer, Enterprise, Backhauling, Land Mobility markets addressed through telecom operators, as well as the Maritime and Aviation markets subsequently. 

Q: When will you be conducting your initial testing/launch schedule? 

A: Our first proof-of-concept test will be conducted in June 2025, with the launch of our payload aboard a third-party spacecraft on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare mission. This will allow us to conduct end-to-end testing of our connectivity solution in space. Following that, we plan to launch two prototype satellites by the end of 2026. These launches will allow us to validate our technology in orbit and pave the way for the deployment of our full constellation in subsequent years.

Q: Does your ground segment integrate directly into the telco’s existing infrastructure? 

A: Yes, our ground segment is designed to seamlessly integrate into the existing infrastructure of telecom operators, including through the integration of our gateways on telecom operators’ cellular towers, and roaming management with their respective 5G Core Network. This integration allows for a smoother adoption of our satellite-based services, enabling telecom operators to extend their reach without overhauling their current systems.

Q: Do you plan for Direct-to-device connectivity in the future? 

A: For the time being, our focus is on the delivery of high speed, low latency internet services through flat-panel directive antennas. We do not have plans yet to include Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity services in our infrastructure.