SpacePNT, a Swiss company specializing in positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) solutions for the new space satellite market, has successfully completed in-orbit validation tests of its NaviLEO spaceborne GNSS receiver platform. This platform is designed to provide decimeter-level positioning and nanosecond-level timing accuracy in low-Earth orbit (LEO), as well as signal reception sensitivity for missions to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO), geostationary orbit (GEO), and the moon. Utilizing proprietary hardware and software technology, the platform can operate in real-time.
Following its deployment on the D-Orbit ION OTV SCV-011 satellite on June 13, 2023, SpacePNT conducted experiments to validate the radiation-tolerant technology’s key functionalities. These experiments included demonstrating various modes of operation, such as dual-antenna and in-flight reprogramming using FPGA image and application software. Flight models have been delivered to commercial and institutional partners for upcoming missions, according to SpacePNT co-founder and CEO, Cyril Botteron.
The second generation hardware platform currently under development will reuse key radiation tolerant electronics components originally designed for telecom constellations. It will also introduce new functions to cater to additional markets including software defined radio platforms for telecom and radar applications. The evolving space satellite market encompasses companies like SpacePNT, SpaceX, Blue Origin among others who are revolutionizing space access through reusable rockets. The increasing adoption of satellite technology along with innovative business models such as satellite based internet services are creating new opportunities for private sector entities within the industry.
