Volume III, No. IV April 2018
Gottlieb's
Independent Analysis and Commentary on Maritime, Aero and Land-based Satellite Technologies
Cover: NSLComm Nano-Satellite w/Broadband Antenna
In This Issue: NSLComm's Raz Itzhaki 's Grand Vision for Small Satellites - Enabling 1 Gbps from Space with a Breakthrough Antenna Design Isotropic Systems CEO, John Finney, Unveils, Innovative, New Terminal - Hybrid Design Merges Active and Passive Antenna Technologies When Disaster Strikes, Iridium "Push to Talk" Opens New Ways to Communicate...
Satellite mobility World
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Welcome to the April 2018 issue of Gottlieb's Satellite Mobility World. Our magazine is now two years old and in just 26 issues, we've opened a whole new chapter in Satellite Industry publications. We're now read in 43 countries around the world. We're continuing to follow the satellite and mobility sector with a series of candid interviews with the Industry's leading CEOs. This month's feature story is about NSLComm of Israel and how their clever antenna design can empower small, nano-satellites to deliver 1 Gbps broadband at a fraction of the cost of typical LEO and GEO constellations. We're also covering Isotropic Systems' innovative new hybrid phased array antenna which was featured at Satellite 2018. Finally, find out how Iridium phones and their "Push to Talk" feature played a key role in the disasters brought on by hurricanes Irma. and Maria. Gottlieb's Satellite and Mobility World is published monthly (except August) by Gottlieb International Group., Inc. Suite 100, 1209 South Frederick Street, Arlington, VA USA 22204 © Copyright 2018 (Tel +1-703-622-8520) Interested in our unique Promotional Capabilities? Contact us today!
SATELLITE MOBILITY WORLD
GOTTLIEB'S
In this Issue:
Industry Trends and Analysis: (pg. 3) NSLComm's Raz Itzhaki 's Grand Vision for Small Satellites - Enabling 1 Gbps Broadband with Breakthrough Antenna Design (pg. 5) Isotropic Systems CEO, John Finney, Unveils Innovative, New Phased Array Terminal - New Hybrid Design Merges Active and Passive Technologies (pg.14) When Disaster Strikes, Iridium "Push to Talk" Opens New Ways to Communicate... (pg. 27) Upcoming and Recommended Satellite Mobility Events (pg. 34)
Industry Trends and Analysis
Inmarsat Stock Collapses to 338 Pence - Over 52 Weeks an Astounding 57% Loss Washington April 4, 2018: As of this morning, Inmarsat stock has fallen to 338 Pence. The collapse of the stock price is reflective of a combination of deteriorating business prospects and a litany of poor business decisions made over the last seven years including its decision to launch a rain sensitive and under-powered Ka-Band constellation instead of pursuing a Ku-Band partnership with FSS providers, imposition of multiple and excessive price hikes on its Fleet Broadband customers, competing against its own distributors and excessive delays in launching Global Xpress due to its choice of Proton as a primary launch provider. In addition, the company, now besieged by Ku-Band HTS competitors, falling bandwidth pricing, weak global cargo shipping markets and the imminent launch of Iridium's new Next constellation - expected to be a major competitor to its L-Band Fleet Broadband service - faces a major reckoning. While it is doing well in aviation markets, revenue from that sector represents a minimal 12% of sales and is unlikely to have a significant impact on sales. Given the collapse in the company's market cap, we believe the odds for a major restructuring or sale of the company have increased substantially. A.G. Iridium Successfully Completes Fifth Launch, Certus to Go Commercial by Mid-Summer Vandenberg Airforce Base, CA March 30, 2018 - Iridium Communications experienced another successful launch on March 30th bringing the total of satellites boosted into to orbit to 50. According to CEO Matt Desch, at the current rate of deployment, the Certus service can be expected to be available sometime in June. The completion of the NEXT constellation is a hugely significant event for users of L-Band satellite services as it offers higher speeds, full global coverage, and lower latency than any other service available in the marketplace today. Hispasat and Phasor to Develop and Deploy New Antenna for High-Speed Satellite Connectivity to Buses, Trucks and Municipal Vehicles "Washington DC, Madrid, 12 March 2018 - "Phasor, the developer of leading, enterprise-grade electronically- steerable antenna (ESA) systems for commercial mobile broadband, today announced that it will enter a partnership agreement with Spanish satellite operator Hispasat, which will use its cutting-edge antenna technology to address rising connectivity demand for professional and passenger land vehicles in its geographical markets. Phasor will collaborate with Hispasat on the development of a Ku-band electronically-steered antenna, (ESA) tailored to the unique requirements of land-mobility applications, using the same core technology found in Phasor’s commercial maritime and aeronautical ESA solutions. Drivers and passengers in buses, trucks and emergency or municipal vehicles, will be able to enjoy a high-quality connected travel experience for applications like operational telematics, and passenger Internet access, mobile telephone services, and even entertainment services on board, such as live TV. The antenna is expected to be available within two years. After the product development stage, Hispasat will provide this new broadband access service to mobility environments on roads in Spain, Portugal, North Africa and Latin America, by means of its satellite fleet. “With the advent of Phasor’s breakthrough electronically-steered antenna system, exciting new markets are opening up to Hispasat” noted Jordi Bosom, Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer for Hispasat. “Our satellites, coupled with Phasor’s ESA, will provide powerful mobility connectivity for unserved and underserved markets across our coverage areas.” “This historic alliance with Hispasat marks Phasor’s very first commercial land-mobility agreement, dedicated to providing a truly connected travel experience for millions of passengers throughout Latin America,” said David Helfgott, Phasor CEO. “Phasor’s versatile and scalable ESA platform will play a vital role in helping Hispasat meet the growing demand for high-speed connectivity aboard connected mass transit systems.” Phasor’s very low profile, electronically steerable antenna enables the reliable, robust delivery of high- bandwidth services. The antenna is solid-state, with no moving parts, allowing satellite signals to be tracked electronically. The ESA can be flat or conformal in design and can be fitted seamlessly to moving vehicles, enabling aeronautical, maritime and land-mobile applications. The same technology is very well suited to support traditional fixed satellite networks, High Throughput Satellites, and Non- Geosynchronous satellite networks. Phasor’s modular antenna architecture allows the system to be scaled to virtually any use-case requirement, fixed or mobile." Iridium and Speedcast Partner to Deliver Next-Generation Satellite Broadband Solutions Speedcast signs on as an Iridium Certus℠ service provider for land-mobile applications "MCLEAN, Va., March 27, 2018 - "Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:IRDM) announced today that Speedcast has signed an agreement to become a land-mobile service provider for its next-generation satellite broadband technology, Iridium Certus. Speedcast joins a world-class group of service providers and will help further expand the Iridium Certus footprint. Designed for on-the-move vehicles, assets and teams, Iridium Certus will support the only truly global communications solution enabling capabilities like real-time vehicle tracking, Internet, phone and data transfer, all from one service. Already a global maritime launch partner for Iridium Certus, Speedcast will bring its international network and expertise to the Iridium Certus land-mobile program as well. "We are excited to continue working with Iridium to expand our portfolio of services with Iridium Certus," said Tim Bailey, Executive Vice President, Products, Marketing, and Business Development, Speedcast. "Iridium Certus will greatly complement our Speedcast Atlas™ managed services portfolio delivering reliable communications to end users anywhere on the planet. We look forward to continuing working with Iridium for many years to come." Specific to the land-mobile market, Iridium Certus will run on the new Thales MissionLINKTM terminal, ideal for off-the-grid public safety, utility, oil and gas, military and non-government organization applications. Iridium Certus will offer cost-effective, reliable and global L-band satellite broadband communications that can smoothly transition between satellite and cellular connectivity as needed, providing the end user unprecedented flexibility. "Expanding our global partner ecosystem is a key component of our Iridium Certus strategy," said Josh Miner, vice president, land-mobile line of business, Iridium. "For the land-mobile market, Iridium Certus is ideal for customers operating vehicles on the move and in remote areas. The solution can act as a multi-service communications platform, supporting all connectivity needs or as a complementary solution, filling the gaps in coverage where cellular falls short. It will allow customers to configure terminals to match their specific needs and requirements, helping to control costs and provide a seamless experience, which is raising the bar within the industry. We are looking forward to expanding our partnership with Speedcast and rolling out the service in the coming months." Testing of the Iridium Certus service is already underway and will be commercially introduced in a series of service classes. Current focus is on the 352 Kbps speed class and will be updated to 704 Kbps through a firmware update available at a later date. The service will operate on the Iridium® network and will leverage the inherent advantages of the constellation. Through its unique architecture of 66 low earth orbit cross-linked satellites, Iridium Certus will provide a global reach that is highly reliable, even in rugged terrain and inclement weather, making it an ideal solution for mobile and remote applications. Iridium Certus is enabled by the Iridium NEXT satellite constellation, which is in the process of replacing the original Iridium network. To date, there have been four successful Iridium NEXT launches, deploying more than half of the new constellation. Four additional launches are planned for 2018." Rignet Closes Intelie Acquisition "HOUSTON, March 26, 2018 RigNet, Inc. (NASDAQ:RNET) announced today that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of Intelie. Intelie has developed a technology platform for real-time predictive analytics that is an award-winning, early pioneer in real-time machine learning and planning optimization. The closing was effective March 23, 2018. The acquisition of Intelie accelerates RigNet’s strategy to move up the network stack and furthers the development of valuable enterprise applications powered by highly differentiated data analysis. RigNet will leverage Intelie’s unique capabilities and market position to differentiate RigNet’s managed communications services. “Machine learning is increasingly becoming the new imperative across all industries. Since our initial announcement, we have received positive feedback from our existing and prospective customers, who are excited about RigNet’s ability to integrate machine learning and operational intelligence through real-time data processing into the next generation of managed communications services," said Steven Pickett, Chief Executive Officer and President of RigNet. “The completion of this acquisition combined with the unique cybersecurity capabilities from our acquisition of Cyphre enables RigNet to deliver highly differentiated managed communications services which are always connected, always secure, and always learning.” Intelie will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of RigNet. Intelie’s Chief Executive Officer, Lelio Souza, will remain and lead the subsidiary." Carnival Implements the World's First Multi-Orbit, Tri-Band Capable Shipboard Antenna System "13th March 2018 – Intellian, the world’s leading provider of maritime satellite antenna systems, today announced that Carnival has installed Intellian’s v240MT next generation tri-band and multi-orbit 2.4 meter antennas on-board several Carnival cruise ships enhancing the connectivity experience. In the cruise sector, there is a real demand for innovative antenna technologies that can enable and support intense data-rich applications. In a world’s first, Intellian’s antennas will provide the Carnival cruise ships with seamless, high-speed connectivity that can truly power the cruise vessel’s connectivity demands. Intellian’s v240M (2.4m) antennas, combined with the new Intelligent Mediator Solution, are specifically designed to deliver data rates exceeding 1 Gbps. This extraordinary level of performance, essentially giving passengers the same connectivity speeds they enjoy at home, has previously never been realised at sea. The new Intellian v240MT solution, provides the unique capability of switching between different satellite frequency bands (C-, Ku-, and Ka-band), as needed without any user intervention. This then enables the operator to select the best solution for the geographic location or for flexibility in achieving the highest throughput on virtually any satellite. The new antennas track GEO satellites and have the capability to track MEO moving satellites. This world’s first solution enables operation on virtually any satellite network, and ensures compatibility for the future as new satellite constellations are launched. To manage the switching between GEO and MEO, Intellian introduces the all-new Intelligent Mediator Solution. This incredibly sophisticated system allows for automatic switching between networks, satellites, and most importantly, provides support for Dual Data Centres. All these systems are connected on-board using Intellian Fiber Optic connections, meaning there is no potential for signal loss over the extended cable runs found on large cruise vessels. This is also much easier to retrofit than the heavier coax cables often used. Supporting Dual Data Centers on the Carnival ships ensures uninterrupted connectivity. The identical mirrored systems, including a full complement of antenna controllers, Intelligent Mediators and satellite modems, instant changeover is completely automated with no manual intervention, an important factor in crew safety and vessel operations. The new Intelligent Mediator handles switching from each satellite frequency band, as well as different orbits. If one antenna becomes blocked by a part of the ship, the system will automatically select the next best solution and switch without any loss of connection for the guests and crew on-board. All of this happens automatically, without any user intervention, this ensures no loss of data and no dropped calls. This World’s first solution, combined with the latest satellite technology, provides Carnival with truly Global coverage, a Tri-band, Multi-orbit, high-speed internet experience, as well as a redundant, resilient system that supports the current satellite networks whilst ensuring capability for future networks and operational areas." Speedcast Launches its Atlas Service, a Fully Managed Global Connectivity Solution "SYDNEY, March 9, 2018 – Speedcast International Limited (ASX: SDA), the world’s most trusted provider of remote communication and IT solutions, has announced the release of Speedcast Atlas, a fully-managed connectivity solution designed to support and guide customers through the continued digitalization and automation of their work sites and processes. Speedcast Atlas features a highly redundant network with multiple satellite networks covering each location, and a non-satellite infrastructure consisting of microwave, fiber and LTE technologies. Speedcast Atlas offers a wide range of applications and value-added services delivered through one service experience that extends across all of the markets we serve. Speedcast Atlas is a fully managed end-to-end solution with global 24/7 technical support and local engineering presence. While connectivity rapidly evolves in terms of speed and reliability, end users are adding ever-more critical applications on their networks; building the network into a sophisticated resource, yet complicating the overall management. The Speedcast Atlas solution engages customers as a trusted partner, to proactively monitor the network and react with customized solutions. Speedcast Atlas extends Speedcast’s managed services through enhanced and differentiated technology offerings focusing on cyber-security, crew welfare, content solutions, data & voice applications and network systems integration. “As our customers digitalize their business and move applications to the cloud, they are relying more and more on connectivity and require a partner that can deliver more bandwidth with higher reliability and better support. They need a partner to help them navigate the frontiers of today’s innovations and stay connected no matter what, a partner that manages the network with faultless reliability, fanatical support and a well-trained eye for future innovations and opportunities.” – Pierre-Jean Beylier, CEO Speedcast." Global Eagle Entertainment Expands Aero Network from Hughes That Brings Faster Speeds and More Capacity with JUPITER Technology "Washington D.C., March 14, 2018—SATELLITE 2018, Booth 501—Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), the global leader in broadband satellite solutions and services, and Global Eagle Entertainment [NASDAQ: ENT], today announced two major enhancements to Global Eagle’s global connectivity network that bring more capacity and faster speeds to airlines and their passengers. First, the Hughes JUPITER aeronautical system is being deployed to support continued expansion of Global Eagle’s airline connectivity customers worldwide, and the second is a continued expansion of the network in North America. Global Eagle’s adoption of the Hughes JUPITER Aero system allows Global Eagle airline customers and passengers to receive the highest speeds in the industry while at the same time enjoying improved operating economics. The JUPITER Aero system delivers extremely fast and consistent beam and satellite times. Together these attributes enable a superior user experience. Global Eagle’s first deployment of the Jupiter Aero system will be in support of international airline routes, with plans to expand. Hughes and Global Eagle also are working together to increase the bandwidth and performance delivered to a leading North American airline and its passengers. This effectively doubles the capacity being used today by Global Eagle in North America, enabling airlines to accommodate growing passenger demand and delivering superior speed and performance for the array of applications passengers use. The expansion consists of both additional ground-based gateway terminals and associated infrastructure as well as a significant increase in satellite capacity allocated to the service. “We are pleased that through our work with Hughes, passengers aboard a North American airline and many other airlines worldwide will have improved speeds and network performance,” said Per Norén, SVP Aviation, Global Eagle. “Together, these moves highlight our focus on connectivity-driven content. We appreciate the relationship with Hughes since our company was founded." Bandwidth Demand Poised for Significant Increase, Driven by Smart Ship Applications and Passenger Needs Further integration and consolidation expected in a fragmented service provider market "Paris, Washington D.C., Montreal, Yokohama, March 8, 2018 - According to Euroconsult's newly-published report, Prospects for Maritime Satellite Communications, satellite connectivity in the maritime market will face booming bandwidth requirements coming not only from bandwidth-hungry passengers and crew but also from the overall development of smart applications. The total number of terminals used by the maritime satellite communications market experienced limited growth in 2017, with an increase of 0.7% year-over-year. However the VSAT market scored 18.8% growth in 2017, exceeding 23,000 terminals. Meanwhile the number of MSS terminals decreased by 0.4%, reaching 314,300 terminals. VSAT technology is starting to be taken up by the medium and small vessels market and this is gaining traction as operators are increasingly willing to migrate from MSS to VSAT solutions. "Increased demand from passengers (especially in the cruise and leisure segment), regulatory incentives on safety communications, crew and passenger appetite for enriched content, and newly developed concepts related to smart shipping are some of the major factors pushing maritime operators to install the latest generation of satellite systems on their vessels. Autonomous shipping, performance monitoring, fleet management and cyber-secure applications, brought by an increasing number of IoT-connected and sensing devices, will drive capacity demand in the next decade," said Florent Rizzo, Consultant at Euroconsult and editor of the report. "For the maritime market, if all satellites are launched as planned, the total available HTS satellite capacity over oceanic regions will grow almost 10-fold from 2017-2020, to cater to the ever-growing demand. The hardware, such as receiving antennas and modems, is also evolving rapidly; smaller, lighter and more efficient antenna systems are gaining traction as the industry continues to evolve." Euroconsult forecasts that the maritime satcom market (both MSS and VSAT) will grow to more than 500,000 terminals in 2027 as compared to 337,300 terminals in 2017. total revenue for satellite operators should grow from $953 million in 2017 to $1.6 billion by 2027, a 10-year CAGR of 5.2%. The revenue for maritime service providers is estimated to grow from $1.8 billion in 2017 to $2.9 billion in 2027 with a 10-year CAGR of 5.3%. Consolidation in the past several years has enabled leading VSAT service providers to gain market share and the five largest companies hold 90% of the market. Competitive pressure is increasing; the development of new VSAT terminal installation facilities and the democratization of the technology are lowering entry barriers for regional service providers, especially in the Asian and Middle East markets. Still, greater competition combined with the need to improve profit margins and leverage economies of scale will favor further integration and consolidation in the value chain. About the Report Prospects for Maritime Satellite Communications provides an in-depth view of the sector dynamics, analysis and forecasts for the maritime satcom market. Five comprehensive sections give a detailed analysis of trends and prospects within the major addressable maritime market segments, including merchant shipping, fishing, passenger ships, leisure vessels, and offshore. About Euroconsult Euroconsult is the leading global consulting firm specializing in space markets. As a privately-owned, fully independent firm, we provide first-class strategic consulting, develop comprehensive research and organize executive-level annual summits and training programs for the industry. With more than 30 years of experience, Euroconsult is trusted by 600 clients in over 50 countries. Euroconsult is headquartered in France, with offices in the U.S., Canada and Japan." Panasonic Avionics and APT SATCOM Bring Extreme Throughput Satellite Technology To Asian Mobility Markets "Lake Forest – 8 March, 2018 – Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic) and APT Mobile Satcom Limited (APSATCOM) today announced a major evolution in connectivity for mobility markets – Extreme Throughput Satellite (XTS) service. APSATCOM is an affiliate of APT Satellite Company Limited (APT), the operator of the APSTAR satellite constellation. With this new satellite, the companies are building on a long-standing and successful capacity relationship. The new satellite, APSTAR-6D, gives Panasonic the capacity to meet the needs of its customers and to position itself for sustained growth in the region. In addition, Panasonic will continue to optimize its global network and add more state-of-the-art satellite capacity in high-density regions to ensure industry-leading performance everywhere its customers fly. APSTAR-6D was jointly designed by APSATCOM and Panasonic to best serve Panasonic’s connectivity customers. It is tailored to put capacity where it is most needed, rather than spread evenly over the Earth. APT has provided technical support in design and project management, and will provide satellite operation after launch. This XTS satellite will provide Panasonic customers with multiple gigahertz of new Ku-band capacity over China and high-density routes around East Asia including Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia using narrow XTS spot beams. In addition, APSTAR-6D provides HTS coverage over the full field of view of the satellite including the Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, Australia and the Southern Oceans down to Antarctica. This includes areas not served by any other HTS satellite. Tailoring the capacity to areas of demand will provide Panasonic customers with better service, unprecedented coverage and the ability to dramatically increase throughput. One of the markets to benefit the most from XTS service is air transport. Today, 21 Asian carriers, representing over 800 aircraft, have already selected Panasonic for connectivity service, including many of the region’s leading airlines, such as Air China, All Nippon Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways, China Airlines, China Eastern, China Southern, EVA Air, Garuda Indonesia, Hainan Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways and Xiamen Airlines. In addition, other leading airlines around the world that are Panasonic connectivity customers will use this advanced satellite capacity as their aircraft fly routes to and over Asia." Speedcast Launches Electronic Distribution of eNavigation Charts Through Partnership with SRH Marine "SYDNEY March 14 – Speedcast International Limited (ASX: SDA), the world’s most trusted provider of remote communication and IT solutions, is partnering with SRH Marine to provide Maritime vessels with Navigation as a Service (NaaS), a simplified electronic distribution of electronic navigational charts and updates. Speedcast NaaS is powered by Speedcast’s SIGMA Gateway platform and SRH Marine’s Pilot. The Maritime world is becoming increasingly digitalized and Speedcast Navigation as a Service will simplify the delivery of electronic navigational charts and updates to assist navigation across the oceans. Speedcast Navigation as a Service, with its remote monitoring and data analytics capabilities, brings Maritime navigation into the digital age and will enable simpler eNavigation regulatory compliance. “Speedcast Navigation as a Service is an excellent example of our increased focus on innovation that brings the benefits of leading-edge technologies to our customers,” said Tim Bailey, Executive Vice President, Products, Marketing and Business Development, Speedcast. “Speedcast NaaS represents the next step in eNavigation, ensuring that vessels receive chart updates faster and with greater cost efficiency.” Commercial vessels rely on distribution of physical media across the globe to keep a vessel’s electronic charts up to date. This method is time consuming and expensive, with updated chart media frequently not reaching its target vessel in a timely way. This can potentially cause regulatory and safety issues. Speedcast NaaS efficiently distributes relevant eNavigation charts and updates to a vessel via Inmarsat Fleet Xpress, Fleet Broadband or Speedcast’s Ku network. NaaS is a fully managed value add solution, supplied via SIGMA Gateway or SIGMA Xtreme and is provided as part of a monthly communications service. The single invoice approach provides simplified manageability for vessel owners and operators. “SRH Marine is excited to deliver the future of digital services with Speedcast via NaaS, with SRH Pilot and SIGMA Gateway. NaaS will revolutionise the electronic navigation world, helping vessels navigate safely and more cost effectively and ensuring customers’ return on investment,” said Panayiotis Giannoulis, COO SRH Marine. Speedcast NaaS is available through Speedcast’s SIGMA Gateway and SIGMA Xtreme and requires no additional hardware. This announcement furthers Speedcast’s increased focus to streamline operations and provide an exceptional customer experience. With 1,300 employees, customers in more than 100 countries, more than 250 field engineers globally and four 24/7 worldwide customer support centres, plus a few regional ones, Speedcast is changing the way customers see remote communications providers."
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Enabling 1 Gbps from Space with Breakthrough Antenna Design
Of all the highly disruptive satellite ventures in the development pipeline, NSLComm's HTS nano-satellite initiative may well be the cleverest of the clever. This small Israeli company, led by Raz Itzhaki, the former manager of the nano-satellite group at Israeli Space Industries, has come up with a way to exponentially boost the broadband capabilities of a traditional nano-satellite by an order of magnitude, using a totally innovative two-element antenna infrastructure - the result being the ability to transmit and receive at speeds as high as 1 Gbps and do it a tiny fraction of the cost of building and launching a traditional GEOs or LEOs. By any measure, the implications for the industry are far reaching. We were fortunate enough to secure an interview with Raz and to get an in-depth look at the technology and his vision to move the company forward. SMW: Can you give us an overview of NSLCom including how the company was formed, key players and origin of the unique nano-satellite based broadband communications initiative? Raz Itzhaki: Basically, there are three founders. I have been managing the nano-satellite department at Israel Aerospace Industries for a decade before creating this company, and my partners came with me from Israeli Space Industries. Personally, I have a PhD in Computer Science and a Masters Degree in Aerospace. Our Chief engineer, Daniel Rockberger, is well known satellite expert with a degree in mechanical engineering and the International Space University and our CTO, Danny Spirtus, is one of the founders of Gilat and has a lot of experience in terrestrial satellite communication. We started the company by looking at the main challenges of communications satellites today. There are two: the first is the risk and cost of access to space - mainly the cost and risk of launches, and the second is energy. In order to work well in space, you need a lot of energy, especially in the case of GEO communications satellites which are very far away. So, harvesting energy from the sun and focusing it towards the earth requires large solar panels and also large antennas. So, if you are going to have a cost-effective launch, you would like it to be the opposite, a very small satellite with a small antenna, that can be compacted into a small volume and be launched at low cost. This led us to investigate the technology that would enable us to have high throughput communication using expandable antennas. SMW: I understand the core of the concept is the use of a small antenna that is folded during launch in a nano-satellite and deployed in space and along with a sub-reflector that corrects distortions in the large antenna and is capable of focusing HTS satellite beams wherever required. Can you explain this concept and how it compares in bandwidth capability to other global broadband satellite initiatives such as OneWeb? Raz Itzhaki: The concept is to launch a very small satellite and grow a communications system in space. So, the idea that we evolved was to launch a nano-satellite with an antenna that could be stowed and then unfolded and deployed in space. We soon realized that in Ka-Band, the accuracy of the reflector demanded by the frequency could not be attained through this approach. So we added a sub reflector to correct any anomalies in antenna shape. Our solution consists of a main reflector that is accurate as possible, deployed in combination with a sub reflector that, driven by a series of actuators, can be reshaped to correct for any errors induced by the larger reflector. This allows us to use a main reflector that is very small in mass and stowed volume. The reflector is made of Shape Memory Polymer (SMP) that can be folded. When it deploys, it opens to a pre-memorized shape requiring no opening mechanism. Essentially, the antenna is the opening mechanism, and there is no need to correct it because the sub reflector compensates for any distortions. Thus, we have the capability to not only correct anomalies in the main reflector but to do beam shaping - focusing or defocussing the energy to create the specific shape we require - all within a single beam. This approach allows us significant benefits. We could have a small satellite launched at minimal cost, launch a constellation of satellites from a single launcher and put satellites in space that act like they are 100 or 200 times larger. While we are not talking about a global constellation initially, but one that would give an envelope of coverage over a limited area, we estimate a constellation, using our technology similar in coverage to OneWeb, could be completed at 1/10 the cost with a partner. SMW: What sort of bandwidth can you deliver in a beam and in what frequency will the constellation operate? Raz Itzhaki: Currently, we are building our first satellite which will be launched in November of this year onboard the Indian PSLV. It will be a 6U nano-satellite. Typically, such satellites can only receive and transmit up to 10 Mbps. However, using our technology, Ka-Band and deploying a 60 cm antenna, we will increase throughput to 1 Gbps - something that has never been done before using a nano-satellite. SMW: Are the satellites inter-linked and, if so how? Isn’t this necessary to avoid the need for numerous gateways? Raz Itzhaki: The use of inter-linking is dependent on the application. For example, combined with imaging capabilities in a single satellite, the high throughput capability could send images to the ground at high speed, reducing the number of ground stations required to receive the signal. Another use case would be to turn the satellite around and communicate at high throughput directly with a GEO satellite enabling communication to your ground station for almost 22 hours per/day. Whereas today, with a nano LEO, you would have only 40 minutes of availability. Regarding gateways, we have two approaches. One is we can have gateways, and the number of gateways is dependent on the orbits that we have. In some cases, however, using gateway approach would be more cost effective than inter-linking. For example, let’s say we have a constellation covering Africa. Three gateways would be enough to serve the whole constellation. This is not to say we would not use ISL for other applications. We are developing it as well. So, we may or may not use it depending on the use case and what would be more cost effective. Another example is if the constellation is only used over land. In that case, you only need gateways on land. Also, in applications requiring very low latency, gateways could be more appropriate since the signal would not have to travel from satellite to satellite, as in an inter-linked solution, before reaching the ground station. It’s also important to note that the gateways required to serve our constellation would utilize antennas much smaller than in typical gateways. As the satellites are much closer to the ground and high gain, we estimate gateway antenna sizes at around 1 meter. So, while inter-links might be practical in one solution, they are not practical in all solutions. It really depends on the use case. SMW: You are planning to launch a first satellite in November of 2018 and, I assume demonstrate the potential of the satellite. Can you give us some specifics on the launch partner, and what you are attempting to accomplish on the initial mission? Raz Itzhaki: Our first satellite which will be launched in November onboard the Indian PSLV, and we will launch a second in 2019. These are demo missions. We will attempt to demonstrate all use cases including very high throughput communications, in flight connectivity, IoT and voice. SMW: What are the target markets for the initial constellation and in what order will you address them? Our initial thrust is to have our communications technology be a part of other satellites and help them download information at high speed i.e. imaging. The second phase would be to provide broadband communication to selected geographies and later, with a partner or partners, expand to a global constellation. For now, we are doing everything. We can build, launch and manage the constellation and are focusing on proving the technology. Ultimately, however, we see ourselves partnering and/or supplying the technology to a satellite operator or integrator. We are looking at various business models and are in the process of deciding which business model suits us best. SMW: What is the potential of your technology for mobility applications? Ras Itzhaki: In this application, GEO satellites do an excellent job but have certain deficiencies. One is their ability to serve customers at high latitudes, another is cost, and a third is high latency. In the near term: We see ourselves as a potential polar coverage solution and a solution for marginal areas not currently well served by GEOs. In the longer term, we have the potential to evolve into a global solution. SMW: As you know, today all satellite integrators lease capacity from satellite operators and, to date, the cost of building and launching a major constellation has made it impractical for even large integrator to vertically integrate. Given the relatively low cost of a nano-satellite deploying your HTS technology, might it be practical for large integrators to launch their own broadband constellation thereby displacing the major satellite operators. Ras Itzhaki: Yes, that is the ultimate vision - entire broadband constellations deployed at a fraction of the costs of GEOs and fully integrated with value added services, installation, provision of hardware and software and services. A.G.
NSLComm's Raz Itzhaki's Grand Vision for Small Satellites
Deployment of Primary Reflector
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Sub-Reflector with Feed Horn
Proposed 60 Satellite Global Constellation
For now, we are doing everything. We can build, launch and manage the constellation and are focusing on proving the technology. Ultimately, however, we see ourselves partnering and/or supplying the technology to a satellite operator or integrator. We are looking at various business models and are in the process of deciding which business model suits us best.
About Raz: Raz has a PhD in Computer Science and Master in Aerospace Engineering. Before starting NSLComm Raz headed the Nanosatellite department at Israel Aerospace Industries for a decade. Raz is a recognized small satellite expert and one of the founders of the new space in the world. Raz Has more than 25 years of experience in the fields of Small Satellites, Propulsion, System Engineering, cognitive sciences and algorithms.
Recently unveiled at the Satellite 2018 event in Washington, Isotropic Systems' new satellite terminal represents a radical departure from traditional terminal designs. In simplest terms, the antenna is composed of individual modules arranged in a honeycomb-like matrix with each module employing an optical beam-forming element to concentrate and focus RF energy onto a small, active array - in much the same way as the lens of a telescope concentrates light before it reaches the eye or photographic plate. According to Isotropic CEO and founder, John Finney, this approach results in a significant reduction in cost vs. conventional active phased arrays, operates at lower power levels and offers higher efficiencies vs. passive arrays - all due to the use of a beam-forming element combined with a reduction in the electronics infrastructure required to build the terminal. To find out more about Isotropic and the technology behind the terminal, Satellite Mobility World met with John Finney. SMW: Can you give me some history of Isotropic Systems? John Finney: Isotropic Systems was formed in 2014 and initially focused on scientific research in the field of optics applied to microwave propagation. After some early success, we moved the company into engineering development in late 2015. Not long after, we began filing patents relating to our core IP which we intend to exploit in a number of satellite and terrestrial industries. SMW: Traditionally, development of these ESA has taken several years and significant amounts of capital – Kymeta well over $100 Million and Phasor much less. Given the fact that you have raised only around $5 Million, that suggests you are very early in the development cycle. Can you tell me how much additional capital you will need to raise where you are in the cycle, when you will demo a prototype and when you will initiate manufacturing and deliver a commercial product? John Finney: To date, Isotropic Systems have secured over $10M USD, a combination of public funding sources, private equity and customer contracts, both commercial and defense-related. The actual number of equity raised by Kymeta is $204M USD according to public sources, which we assume is much higher than their original business plan estimated. We think Phasor is in the correct range as a benchmark for what it takes to develop an ESA terminal. In our case, we anticipate a wider range of terminals so we expect on the order of an additional $50M USD in equity to add to a significant customer NRE (non-recurring engineering) backlog. SMW: As you know, there are two basic approaches to development of these antennas, active and passive arrays. Phasor is in the final stages of an active array which uses individual silicon patch antennas to do the beam forming, and Kymeta uses a meta-materials approach. I understand that the Isotropic antennas use a combination of active and passive technologies – optical beam which is passive, combined with an active silicon array. Can you please explain the advantages of this approach? John Finney: Sure. First, to clarify, unlike Isotropic’s solutions, all ESAs today have one thing in common - they are effectively phased arrays, regardless of whether they use meta-materials or silicon patch antennas. They all require thousands of feeds to create one beam in a given direction. Each one of those feeds has expensive circuitry. Thousands of feed elements result in the high prices we associate with ESAs today. Those prices might be acceptable for Super Yachts or Defense at "the top of the pyramid," but we needed something remarkably different in order to distribute terabytes of capacity to markets at the "base of the pyramid." Think of fishing vessels, coaches, buses, commercial aircraft, consumer broadband, or cellular backhaul. In those markets, the cost of current technologies can not address the total cost of ownership required to close the business case and pioneer new growth for the industry with today's ESA’s. In our approach, we use passive "optical beam-formers" to concentrate radio waves with a high degree of accuracy onto active circuitry. This is not dissimilar to a phased array in many respects, but with three notable exceptions: Since the beamformers themselves do 80% of the scanning/point work, we only require 20% of the feeds compared with a conventional phased array in a given frequency, therefore reducing our cost to manufacture considerably; The resulting reduction in the number of active feeds and associated circuitry needed at any one time leads to a significant reduction in the DC power consumption; By investing in true time delay, we are able to offer almost unlimited instantaneous bandwidth. This allows our future-proof technology to work with any HTS system or NGSO as it comes on-line. SMW: I understand that the proprietary IP in the design encompasses the optical beam forming material, correction of the time delay and the combining of the signals from the individual antenna modules. Please elaborate on the proprietary nature of the antenna. John Finney: We only elaborate on the proprietary nature of our technology through patent filings—of which we have many pending and directly with our customers under contract or those entering into contracts. As a private company, nothing motivates us to share this information more widely until we are closer to specific product launches that are generally available to the market. SMW: As you are employing optical beam forming materials, how will these materials respond to the extreme temperature fluctuations characteristic of aviation and rail markets (i.e. in and out of tunnels)? John Finney: Great question, Alan. We have already tested the materials in a thermal environment for such items as thermal expansion. Whilst it does occur, we have found through a down selection of material types that the expansion is so low that no degradation occurs in terms of bandwidth performance or the integrity of the solution over time and severe environmental constraints. The example you gave for rail is a great one, but we primarily focused our material research on the known standards for aero as they represent the highest technical bar to pass. So far we have no concerns around the most extreme environmental challenge. SMW: I believe you stated that the antennas are 70-80% less costly to produce than a conventional phased array. First, what antennas specifically are you taking about i.e. the new low-cost antennas in development (Phasor, Kymeta and others with focus on breakthrough costs) or phased array antennas that have been used by the military which have characteristically been very expensive? While it appears that you need a significantly smaller number of chips, based on the cutaways shown, each antenna appears to have rather complex inter-workings and many parts. So, the costs would be spread among many components and the labor associated with assembly. Could you explain where the cost savings are actually achieved? John Finney: The cost savings are achieved as a result of circuitry reduction in the range of 70% to as much as 95% depending on the customer specific application and scanning requirements. In terms of the inter-workings between each optical beamformer, there are no more parts than any conventional phased array. If anything, we have less complexity because we are dealing with an array of fewer super-elements (optical beam-formers). In terms of how we benchmark our pricing statements, not using dollar amounts is intentional! We are more than happy to share with our customers our bill of materials and designs. The fact that we have entered into contracts with leading satellite operators speaks for itself. We will not divulge our final product selling price prematurely, but rest assured, price disruption is core to our model. What we can say is, if we exclude the military-type phased arrays and focus on the mainstream antenna manufacturers and so-called flat panels—based on our understanding of their design architecture, stated performance and/or publicly stated pricing—we believe our products will be a truly disruptive advantage over all known ESAs both technically and commercially. SMW: What are the economics associated with production of the optical beam forming material? Can it be produced in volume at low cost? John Finney: In most cases the optical beam-forming material represents a minor part of the total terminal costs. Indeed, the optical beam-formers are designed with a well-known mass manufacturing technique in mind. As you are aware, last week we announced that OneWeb has selected Isotropic for the development of their ultra-low cost consumer broadband terminal. In due diligence, one of the primary concerns was our ability to mass produce. Keep in mind that the terminal volumes required for consumer broadband are enormous compared to the current market volumes, and if we can meet OneWeb’s requirements, we can meet the market’s. SMW: As we both know, all flat Panel ESA are subject to severe loss of gain when not bore site on with the satellite – an especially difficult problem with GEO satellites, but one that is not relevant with LEOs. Do you plan to deploy the Isotropic antenna for use with GEOs and, if so, how do you deal with loss of gain at high latitudes? John Finney: Like all flat panel ESA, our terminal is indeed subject to gain degradation when operated away from bore-sight. The simplest solution is to design the terminal to meet the minimum gain requirements of a particular application across the desired frequency and scan range, which indicates that the terminal will have a significant gain bonus over nominal requirements at lower scan angles. Our performance at scan is comparable to that of other planar, non-gimbaled antennas, but our architecture allows significant benefits when compared to alternatives. The modular nature of our optical beam-forming modules allows them to be tiled conformed to fit multiply-curved surfaces, rather than requiring for practical or theoretical reasons that the aperture remain flat. Particularly, in the aeronautical application, but for others as well, this ability to conform the geometry of our terminal to the shape of the platform alleviates the effect of gain reduction at scan, since subsets of the terminal are then at bore-sight or nearly so at most of the scan range of the terminal. SMW: I understand that your initial product will operate in the Ka-Band and will be developed for SES Mpower, and a second Ku-Band version is in the works for OneWeb. How will these antennas differ in terms of design? John Finney: We are developing both Ku and Ka-band products for our customers. Our product lines are generally separated into Enterprise, Consumer, and High-performance applications (such as Aeronautical). Although each of these share the primary benefits of our technology, they will differ in terms of their implementation to satisfy the very different requirements for every case. The OneWeb consumer terminal will be specialized to their application in such a way as to meet their cost targets; this includes a single beam, reduced scan range, and tuning for higher volume production. In the enterprise case, the need for higher performance will drive towards higher optical beamformer tolerances, wider scan range, and advanced features such as multiple beams and modem bays. Our core electrical-scanned optical beam-forming technology is the same for all of our products. SMW: What is your projected form factor i.e. thickness, size ranges? In order to a G/T equal to a conventional one-meter dish, how large an antenna do you need? John Finney: Our terminal will have roughly equivalent performance at bore-sight for similar aperture areas of a reflector. Application requirements will determine if the terminal is sized for the minimum or maximum performance requirements. Planar Ku terminals will be approximately 10cm thick, potentially slightly thicker at the apex of the radome depending on mounting requirements, and Ka terminals will be slightly thinner. Form factors are typically envisioned as roughly circular or rectangular, but are not limited by our technology or architecture to be a particular shape. Our product road-map includes Ku enterprise terminals from 70cm on up, with dimensions and performance dictated by the application and product requirements. SMW: What about scalability? As antenna efficiency is largely dependent on the surface area of the terminal, what are the capabilities of your antenna in terms of scalability? Are there size limitations and can you combine separate apertures to enhance efficiency on send and/or receive? John Finney: Scalability in multiple ways is one of our strongest features. There are not fundamental limits on how large we can scale our terminals. Given that our terminals are composed of sub-apertures in the form of our optical beam-forming modules, we simply tile additional modules together to achieve larger (or smaller) aperture sizes. This allows very granular performance adjustments to be made; we are not limited to combining independent large apertures together. We offer cost advantages for applications where scan ranges are limited or controlled, since we can adjust the number and placement of feeds depending on the required scanning functionality. The combination of aperture scaling, scan scaling, and our ability to balance the relative receive and transmit capability in an aperture make for a very scalable technology. SMW: Can you do send and receive on a single aperture or do you require separate send and receive apertures? John Finney: Our terminals support combined transmit/receive in the same aperture. We offer the option to have separate Tx / Rx lenses, or lenses with combined Rx/Tx in the same lens, based on application requirements. In no case do we require visible distinct sub-apertures. SMW: What are your initial target markets for the antenna and in what order do you plan to address them? John Finney: Our first priority will be our main customers. They are partnered with Isotropic to accelerate the development of our terminals, fine tuned for their specific HTS service requirements. They are Inmarsat, SES, Avanti and OneWeb. Those agreements encompass the entire application space from aero down to consumer broadband. In all cases except aero, we will have field prototypes in the hands of our customers by late 2019, limited production runs early 2020 and production rate units in 2H 2020. We will have our aero qualification units available by late 2020 and certified for production by late 2021. We are extremely confident of our ability to deliver terminals—fully tested and qualified—to OneWeb and SES mPOWER before those systems enter into service. SMW: Thank you John for giving us an overview of Isotropic and the very unusual and potentially promising terminal you have in development. We look forward to hearing more as you move closer to bringing the terminal to market.
New Hybrid Design Merges Active and Passive Technologies
Isotropic Systems CEO, John Finney, Unveils Innovative, New Terminal
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Isotropic leverages optical beam forming principles to realize massive component cost reductions.
"...all ESAs today have one thing in common—they are effectively phased arrays, regardless of whether they use meta-materials or silicon patch antennas. They all require thousands of feeds to create one beam in a given direction. Each one of those feeds has expensive circuitry. Thousands of feed elements result in the high prices we associate with ESAs today."
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Illuminating the beam former with different feeds scans the element pattern of the array and enables multiple communication beams from the same aperture.
The combination of optical and phased array beamforming uses the best parts of both technologies.
Isotropic's lenses are intrinsically broadband, with products under development for both Ku and Ka.
Isotropic has been selected by OneWeb to develop low cost consumer broadband terminals
About John Finney: A satellite and telecoms industry veteran with over $2 billion in new revenue creation directly attributed to his leadership, John Finney pioneered significant success for start-ups Huawei (founded Huawei in Europe) and O3b (founding employee and Chief Commercial Officer) along with other major leadership roles such as global business unit leader for Alcatel-Lucent. John has been identified as a Top 40 Executive by Global Telecoms Business three years in succession.
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Climate change is upon us and with it, an unprecedented rise in extreme weather. Hurricanes and droughts, vicious new storms and wild fires are becoming the norm. In this new environment, understanding how to use and deploy Iridium phones and their advanced features has become vital to survival itself. Never, in recent times, has so large a community been so challenged by a massive hurricane and near total communications blackout as was Puerto Rico in 2017, in its encounter with hurricane Irma followed by Hurricane Maria. Unlike past storms that occurred in areas areas of highly developed infrastructure in more easily accessible geographies, this storm plundered an island with high mountains and sometimes small villages connected by a minimal network of roads and vulnerable electrical and communications infrastructure, the net result being a catastrophic and enduring collapse of service necessary to sustain life and health in a developed society. Reacting to the Disaster: Within hours of the disaster, massive quantities of Iridium satellite phones were shipped from Miami by Iridium re-sellers Network Innovations, Global Sat and Satphone store, bringing the number of handsets in use on the island from an average of a mere 10 or so to over 4,000 within days. Sometimes recharged by special solar charges and emergency generators, these phones rapidly became the only means of communication outside of San Juan to an island population of over three million. Immediately, understanding what these phones could do and how to maximize their use, soon became a priority and in this case, it became apparent that in geographical areas frequently subject to extreme weather, it makes sense to pre-position phones and provide training to the key first responders, government and municipal government officials rather than wait for a disaster to happen. Understanding Iridium's Unique Communications Capabilities: While most are familiar with the basic call functions offered by an Iridium handset, the capabilities of these devices extends far beyond simply calling from point a to point b. In addition to a simple, basic calling function, some of the devices can support a unique Push to Talk (PTT) feature as well as the ability to integrate with a basic mobile radio network. Push to Talk: The PTT functionality enables instant, dial-free connectivity to pre-established groups of users with a common objective and purpose, even in different geographical areas. Through a web portal, an administrator can select geographical areas to be included in a PTT network and establish up to 15 individual "groups" in diverse locations around the world, each with an unlimited number of users. Additionally, conversations occurring in each group can be monitored centrally at any time further enhancing PTT functionality. For example, an administrator at FEMA in Washington could monitor the activity of a specific FEMA team on the ground at a disaster recovery site - functionality critical to the Irma and Maria disaster recovery efforts. In addition to the Iridium phones deployed, the reach of the satellite phone network can also be extended to include specialized PTT units in aircraft as well as vehicles and to trunk radio networks through an adaptive base station. Given the severity and extended duration of the Puerto Rico disaster, use of the Iridium phones rose to an extraordinary level on the island. According to Iridium CEO, Matt Desch, phone usage jumped from 500 minutes per/day pre- disaster to over 20,000 minutes per/day during the height of the recovery effort. Recovery Continues: At publication date, over 90% of Puerto Rico's power has been restored and terrestrial cellular networks are largely functional. However, there is little doubt of the critical role played by Iridium as the last resort provider of critical communications in cases where ground based telecom infrastructure is rendered inoperable. Iridium on a Roll... With Iridium upgrading its network with new Iridium NEXT satellites and having now replaced over 50% of its constellation through five successful launches completed, the satellite operator is moving toward the final stages of what is shaping up to be a highly network upgrade. Iridium also plans to roll out its faster Iridium CertusSM commercial service later this year. In total, services offered by the new NEXT constellation represent compelling alternatives to Inmarsat's GEO based Fleet Broadband and satellite phone services, offering faster speeds, a lower cost, solid state antenna, lower latency total global coverage and all at highly competitive price points - advantages that are expected to seriously challenge Inmarsat's dominance of the L-Band communications segment. By Alan Gottlieb
When Disaster Strikes, Iridium "Push to Talk" Opens New Ways to Communicate...
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Iridium "Push to Talk" Network
Iridium PTT Management Portal
There are many mobility related satellite industry events and unless you have an unlimited budget, here are the "must attends" and others that may be of interest. Note that the "hot" sectors are Cruise, Aero and Yachts. Upcoming Conferences: ***Posidonia, Athens Greece, June 4-8th, 2018: This is a key show due to the Greek shipping industry's leading position in the Tanker industry - the leading cargo maritime sector in terms of VSAT purchases. *****Global Connected Aircraft Summit, San Diego, CA June 4-6, 2018: In our opinion, this is the best event dealing with aircraft connectivity. As the commercial airlines struggle to upgrade and install Wi-Fi aboard their aircraft, the demand for bandwidth and associated Internet applications for both passenger entertainment and monitoring of aircraft systems is the prime focus. As the industry is also a leader in the use of IoT and M2M applications, what can be learned at this conference has applicability in other mobility sectors as well. ***CommunicAsia: June 26-28 2018: This is probably the best Asian satellite industry event. While not heavily focused on mobility, we recommend it for the excellent industry networking opportunities - expensive but well worth it. ***** World Satellite Business Week : September 2018: Notably the best conference for networking among top industry executives. A "must attend" with an excellent program. The 2017 conference was excellent. We attended the "Smart Plane" session and found it especially interesting. ***** 32nd Annual Small Satellite Conference August 4-9 2018, Logan Utah: This is the premier conference on small satellites and is highly recommended. Given the tremendous interest in this segment, the conference is a must attend: During the Conference, speakers will explore the new technologies, design methods, processes, operational constructs, and activities that inform and secure the success of small satellite missions. Other Conferences/Shows of Interest: ***Digital Ship CIO Forum/Cyber Resilience Forum: Held in numerous locations around the world, these events are notable for their focus mainly on IT related issues including cyber security, IoT and M2M. Sponsored globally by Marlink, they are held nearly everywhere. As the maritime cargo sector is in a major slump, the shipping people who attend these events are not in a buying mood. These events are probably worth attending at least once for their IOT, M2M and Cyber Security content - if you have the budget and the time. If you are interested in finding buyers, focus on the Tanker sector and attend Posidonia.
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