Kuala Lumpur: SWISSto12, a satellite manufacturer, has partnered with Astrum Mobile to deliver the first-ever Satellite-to-Device (S2D) platform in Asia Pacific. This groundbreaking collaboration involves the development of the NEASTAR-1 satellite, which is based on SWISSto12’s compact HummingSat platform. The satellite will be operated at geosynchronous position 105E to provide 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) services across the region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, SWISSto12 Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Founder, Emile de Rijk, expressed enthusiasm about the project. He noted that this collaboration will demonstrate the power and versatility of S2D service through a compact satellite payload designed to enhance global connectivity. Meanwhile, Astrum Mobile CEO, Sean Wallace, highlighted that the upcoming launch of NEASTAR-1 has generated significant interest from customers and partners, emphasizing the need for ubiquitous service access that aligns with national and commercial priorities.

Astrum Mobile’s S2D service will utilize Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) NTN technology. This will support rich media streaming, data casting, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, mass notifications, and emergency alerts throughout Asia Pacific. Designed to operate in the L-band with high power and resistance to severe weather disruptions, the service aims to provide uninterrupted connectivity during natural disasters such as typhoons, floods, and earthquakes. Standard smartphones and smart devices will be able to access the service without requiring additional hardware.

NEASTAR-1 is the fifth satellite in the HummingSat product line and will be equipped with reconfigurable beams to adapt to evolving market demands. This innovation marks a significant advancement in satellite technology, promising improved connectivity and communication capabilities across the Asia Pacific region.