QuadSAT Emulates LEO/MEO Passes for Highly-Dynamic Testing

Odense, Denmark, 1st June 2023 – QuadSAT has announced the ability of its drone system to emulate orbital passes of a LEO or MEO satellite as seen from the antenna on the ground. This patent-pending technology means that the system can generate virtual passes from any direction and at any elevation angles to perform tracking tests, wherever the antenna is located.
 
Added as a compliment to the existing antenna measurement in a box solution, this system has been equipped to fly precise, time dependent, and on demand passes, helping to extend the test scenarios further. Thanks to TLE generation tool, the system users can continually emulate passes of interest in a controlled environment, resulting in a holistic verification approach of antenna tracking. 
 
The payload on the drone is further enhanced to act as a satellite transponder. The payload interacts with the antenna under test by transmitting a modulated carrier towards the antenna-modem system. The payload also can receive and demodulate or store IQ files for future post processing.
 
Thanks to utilisation of RTK (Real Time Kinematics) GNSS technology, QuadSAT is able to ensure centimeter positional accuracy for these highly dynamic applications.
 
With this feature, QuadSAT is able to create an on-demand simulation environment to test and verify the antenna pointing offset across its operational range, verify the antenna tracking capability, and test real life operational scenarios. Rather than waiting for specific passes, the user can generate these on-the-go.
 
Andrian Buchi, CTO, QuadSAT, commented: “When launching a new constellation, satellite operators need to ensure that the ground segment is installed correctly and calibrated prior to launch. By simulating exact passes and beaming the signal directly on the target antenna, we can enable them to avoid unforeseen delays that occur when the antenna is unable to acquire the live satellite. While it is possible to test using existing LEO/MEO satellites, beam pointing is limited to only where that constellation has users or gateways. Even when a constellation is up and running, this system delivers much more flexibility, ensuring repeatable test procedures and antenna qualification methods.”
 
The system is also designed to enable antenna manufacturers to test exact operational scenarios before delivering a product to their customers. 
 
The payload is able to simulate Doppler shift, as well as signal variations due to distance path loss or atmospheric attenuation. It can be used as a site acceptance tool test to establish system offsets, verify tracking and prove system reliability. Various other test scenarios could also be programmed, such as simulation of rain fade or launch and acquisition of a new satellite.
 
LEO / MEO tracking support is now available within the existing QuadSAT system. QuadSAT will be exhibiting at Space-comm from 7th – 8th June on Stand M3. Book a meeting with the team

QuadSAT Completes Large Antenna Testing Mission with Telespazio

Using the QuadSAT drone-based system, it tested a large 17-metre antenna situated at Fucino Space Center, in Italy.

Odense, Denmark, 25th May 2023, QuadSAT has completed an antenna validation mission with space services operator, Telespazio. Using the QuadSAT drone-based system, it tested a large 17-metre antenna situated at Fucino Space Center, in Italy. Other capabilities of QuadSAT drone-based testing solution, such as ground station tracking performance analysis, were also demonstrated as part of the mission.

QuadSAT worked with Telespazio to perform the radiation pattern measurements of the large, 17 metre, antenna. Due to the size of the antenna, QuadSAT carried out careful planning and a detailed site survey ahead of the mission. The measurements were taken from a nearby mountain peak, at 12 km from the antenna.

The radiation pattern measurements enabled QuadSAT to provide Telespazio with important data about the performance of the antenna, as well as extracting information on the shape and size of the main beam and level and position of sidelobes. This has enabled the operator to ensure the antenna is operating at optimum efficiency.

Telespazio is a global company that provides services that include the design and development of space systems, the management of launch services and in-orbit satellite control, Earth observation services, integrated communications, navigation and tracking satellite and scientific programmes.Emanuele Belloni, Installation, Integration and Test Manager, Telespazio, commented: “We believe that innovation is the true driving force of Telespazio’s business, for this reason we have established a multi-year cooperation with Quadsat. Our 60-years’ experience in space domain, together with the Quadsat system, gave positive results to measure our 17-meters antenna. We were really impressed about this innovative approach that has the potential to dramatically reduce the challenges and costs normally associated with testing.” 

Andrian Buchi, Chief Technical Officer, QuadSAT, added: “Quality assurance and reliability are critically important for satellite communication service providers like Telespazio, and this is achieved through effective and reliable testing of the ground segment. This campaign has demonstrated how our drone-based system can be used as an alternative to existing fixed beacon-based methods for testing large antennas. The mission has also enabled Telespazio to accurately test and verify one of its large antennas in a cost-effective way.”

Get in touch with QuadSAT for more information or to request a demo.

QuadSAT Named as Finalist for Odense Robotics Company of the Year 2023

Ground segment antenna measurement with drone

Odense, Denmark, 29th March 2023 – QuadSAT has been shortlisted as finalist for the Odense RoboticsCompany of the Year award. The award celebrates outstanding achievements in Denmark’s robotics, automation and drone industry. 

Nominations for the award and voting for finalists are made by members of Odense Robotics, and are chosen based on extraordinary growth, special contribution to the cluster and strategic leadership. 

Founded in 2017, QuadSAT’s game-changing technology is dramatically simplifying testing of satellite equipment at every stage of its lifecycle. Using a drone-based system for accurate testing and verification of radio frequency equipment, QuadSAT is helping the industry to ensure efficient and reliable use of satellite networks. The company has already worked with leading satellite companies, including OneWeb, SES, and the European Space Agency.

Joakim Espeland, CEO, QuadSAT, commented: “The satellite industry is challenged with an evolving environment and more demand than ever before for seamless connectivity. Our solution has the potential to help optimise satellite networks and help the industry navigate some of the current and future challenges associated with that. We are grateful for the support we have received over the years from Odense Robotics and honoured to be considered for this award.”

Winners of the Odense Robotics Company of the Year will be announced at the award ceremony at Odense Robotics’ Annual Conference on 11 May, 2023.

QuadSAT Secures €9 Million Funding to Scale Up Operations and Expand Product Range

Odense, Denmark – 16th March  2023 – QuadSAT ApS has secured €9 million in funding. The Danish company is revolutionising the satellite industry by making it possible to accurately measure and calibrate antennas and satellite systems anywhere in the world. The funding round was led by IQ capital and supported by current investors, including the world’s leading space tech fund, Seraphim Space, Danish state Vækstfonden, and angel investors Torben Frigaard Rasmussen and Helge Munk.
 
The funding round is the result of a significant uptick in commercial demand from major satellite operators, antenna manufacturers, and service companies in the satellite industry. With the new funding, QuadSAT aims to scale up its operations, expand its product range and bring its technology to more customers in the market.
 
Joakim Espeland, CEO of QuadSAT, said: “This is a significant milestone for our company, and we are excited to be able to expand our global reach. With this funding, we will be able to optimise the use of global radio spectrum by providing our customers unparalleled testing capabilities, ultimately ensuring better performance of satellite networks.”
 
Daniel Carew, Investment Principle from IQ Capital, commented: “The satcoms industry is growing at a fantastic rate. In the not too distant future, almost everything will be connected via satellite. With that growth will come an urgent need to ensure efficient RF connectivity and spectrum utilisation. QuadSAT’s technology is already making an impact with a number of leading players. This company has massive potential for the future, and we are excited to be a part of the next stage of growth.”
 
QuadSAT’s unique testing solution provides a cost-effective, scalable and precise way to test antennas and satellite systems in operation, and anywhere in the world. This approach to testing has already attracted the attention of the satellite industry, helping QuadSAT to cement its position as a major player in the market. With the new funding, QuadSAT will be looking to recruit top talent, to expand its operations, and bring its technology to a wider customer base.
 
Torben Frigaard Rasmussen, Chairman of the Board, QuadSAT: “Having worked with QuadSAT for the past few years, it is apparent that the technology has real potential, which this latest round will help the company fulfill. At the same time, the team behind QuadSAT is extremely passionate and driven, which has been instrumental in getting the solution in front of leading industry players. I look forward to continuing to be a part of QuadSAT’s success.
 
For more information about QuadSAT’s technology and services, or career opportunities, please visit the company’s website at www.quadsat.com.

SOMAP Accepts QuadSAT Measurement for Ground Antenna Performance

Odense, Denmark, 6th March 2023 – QuadSAT ApS has received acceptance confirmation from SOMAP for its drone-based antenna verification system. QuadSAT’s unique testing solution provides a cost-effective, scalable and precise way to test antennas and satellite systems in operation, and anywhere in the world.
 
The SOMAP (Satellite Operators Minimum Antenna Performance) Group was formed in 2013 by industry leading satellite operators (consisting of AsiaSat, Eutelsat, Inmarsat, Intelsat and SES), with the aim of developing an antenna qualification framework that could be adopted by the participating members.  This framework is primarily intended to address the qualification of new antenna products being introduced to the market.
 
The SOMAP Group has concluded that it could accept ground station antenna measurement results that are obtained via Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (“UAVs”).  The SOMAP Group further confirmed that antenna performance measurement via drone technology as developed by QuadSAT would be acceptable as a means to measure satellite ground antenna performance.  

Joakim Espeland, CEO, QuadSAT, commented: “This is a significant milestone for QuadSAT, helping us to make high quality antenna testing and diagnostics accessible globally. Ensuring good antenna performance throughout the lifecycle is crucial for enabling the industry to deliver seamless connectivity, reduce the risk of interference, and keep customers connected.”

David Meltzer, Secretary General, the Global VSAT Forum (GVF), added: “GVF collaborated with the SOMAP Group in the development of the antenna qualification framework. This confirmation by the SOMAP Group is a significant step for both the industry and QuadSAT. We are pleased to continue to support SOMAP in its efforts to improve antenna performance.”

Helen Weedon, Managing Director, the Satcoms Innovation Group (SIG), added: “We have entered a whole new phase in the satcoms industry, which is bringing with it a massive increase in complexity. The benefits of the QuadSAT system are immense and it is poised to improve antenna performance throughout the industry. The fact that SOMAP has confirmed it as an acceptable method of measurement is a win-win-win for the industry. Manufacturers can perform more measurements than were previously possible, customers can gain the reassurance that products will have been through more testing, increasing validity, and satellite operators will have more reliable products on their network and access to good data.”

Information about the SOMAP can be found at SOMAP – Satellite Operator’s Minimum Antenna Performance – GVF.

QuadSAT will be exhibiting at Satellite 2023 from 14th – 16th March, on booth 1238. For more information or to book a meeting please visit https://quadsat.com/satellite-2023/.

Interference: The Importance of Mitigation

Quadsat setting up equipment

Satellite interference continues to be a challenge for the satcoms industry. While operators have more tools in their arsenal and the processes in place for coordinated approaches, interference mitigation takes time and can cause downtime for services. With the anticipated rise of LEO satellites and multi-orbit networks, we have yet to see the full effect on Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) but most experts would agree it will make the situation all the more challenging for a number of reasons. With that inevitability hanging over the industry at a time where we are primed to enable next generation services as long as we can deliver seamless connectivity, how do we make sure interference continues to be effectively managed?

Prevention, Detection, Resolution 

A number of years ago the then Satellite Interference Reduction Group (now the Satcoms Innovation Group) ran a number of campaigns around the different areas of interference mitigation. The premise remains relevant, and we need tools and processes in all of these areas to succeed. While everyone would likely agree that prevention is better than cure, it is clear that not every instance of interference can be prevented, so having the tools in place to detect it and resolve it is naturally extremely important. While we have those in place for the current environment, the complex nature of LEO satellites and multi-orbit means that this will get more challenging, and we likely need to revisit the tools in place and extend those to be able to keep RFI under control.

Reducing risk

Reducing that risk currently entails a number of steps. Aside from close frequency coordination and spectrum management between the operators, this involves two main aims: reducing human errors and equipment failure (the two biggest causes of interference). Today that is mainly handled by training to reduce human error, such as the training programmes offered by the Global VSAT Forum (GVF). In the broadcast world, we have seen this as a particular challenge as the person operating the satellite equipment in an OB truck, for example, is very often the driver, cameraman, and satellite engineer all rolled into one. When everything is working fine, that is great, but it is very easy to make a mistake in that environment.

Ensuring equipment is not causing failure requires regular testing of all ground station equipment. This should take place before the equipment is put on the network, as well as throughout its lifecycle. Standards that are designed to ensure all equipment passes muster are vital here. All satellite operators have their own standards of acceptance but the challenge for equipment manufacturers is that these can vary as can the information needed and format before certain equipment can be used. That is why  by SOMAP (Satellite Operator’s Minimum Antenna Performance) is so valuable, and quite a feat getting a group of competing operators to agree on a common standard for antenna performance. Of course GVF’s type approvals programme also offers an amount of reassurance for product quality.

With LEO now, we need to make sure these same approaches are adapted to work in this different environment and with new, smart ground station equipment that is being launched to operate for LEO.

When mitigation doesn’t work

You cannot possibly prevent all instances of interference in this way. Despite rigorous testing, equipment can still fail. Even a highly trained satellite engineer can occasionally make an error. And of course, deliberate jamming can often not be predicted. Having the tools and processes in place to detect and resolve interference will remain vital. Over recent years there has been a lot of innovation in this regard, but it is likely that we will need new tools for detecting interference in this new environment we are entering.

Resolving is, and always will be, predominantly about operators working together. Forums such as SIG have an important role to play in enabling this collaborative working, as well as sharing those case studies that demonstrate to others how certain cases were solved.

Join us a GOVSATCOM and Satellite 2023

Our CEO, Joakim Espeland will be joining panels to discuss the challenge of interference at both GOVSATCOM ON 23rd February and Satellite 2023 on 16th March. For more information on QuadSAT at these events or to book a meeting check our events page.

QuadSAT and Danish Navy Explore New Testing Methods

Odense, Denmark, 18th January 2023 – QuadSAT has performed a technical demonstration of its drone-based testing solution in a real operational environment for the Danish Navy. The pilot project was designed to explore the system’s potential both for measuring antenna radiation diagrams on board vessels, as well as for future testing and calibration of other Navy equipment, such as radars, ESM, and sonars.

 

Working together with the 1st Squadron at Navy Base Frederikshavn and the crew of F360 Hvidbjørnen, QuadSAT was able to test antenna radiation on a Navy vessel prior to operation.  The QuadSAT system for testing and verification of satellite antennas consists of a drone, integrated with a unique RF payload that enables high accuracy measurements. Purpose-built software is able to automate aspects of the test and collate and analyse measurements.

 

During the pilot project, QuadSAT carried out a number of tests including antenna radiation diagram with radome, 360 degree blockage zone check and tracking without the presence of a satellite. This resulted in a number of raster scans at various angles, as well as principle cuts with and without satellite tracking. As well as opening up the potential for other low-effort, high value tests on currently installed satellite communication systems, it also served to prove accuracy in line with standards such as ITU-R S.580.

 

As well as ensuring the satellite communications equipment is operating optimally under in-field conditions before going into operation, this solution can provide an accurate data set for link budgeting. It also enables users to detect and manage degradation before failure. Originally developed for satcoms, QuadSAT is continuing to develop its solution to enable different testing scenarios. This includes work undergoing to enable acquisition of RF data from the environment, which will create specific test scenarios for RF emitting and receiving systems and enable users to understand and react to changes in the RF environment.


Søren Aarhus, Chief Operating Officer, QuadSAT, added: “Ensuring defence equipment is operating effectively is of course extremely important. We believe our approach is cost effective and much more flexible compared to existing options, which will ultimately lead to a safer and more efficient operating environment for the navy. We hope that our system can therefore help the Navy further increase its line of defence against threat.

 

To see if the QuadSAT system can work in your operational environment, get in touch to request a demonstration. QuadSAT will be exhibiting at GOVSATCOM on 23rd February 2023. Find out more or book a meeting.

 

A New Way to Access QuadSAT’s Drone-based Antenna Testing Solution

It’s undoubtedly an incredibly exciting time to be working in satcom. While the demand for increased connectivity and high availability is creating competition in the form of technologies such as 5G and IP, it is also driving forward change across the satcom industry. We’re seeing unprecedented expansion in LEO, technological advancement in the space segment, a drive towards multi-orbit environments and innovation in antenna technology. And to add to that list, now at QuadSAT, we’re really excited to have released a productised version of our ground-breaking drone-based antenna and radio frequency test and measurement solution.

The development and release of the solution as a product was made possible through funding received from the ESA ARTES Core Competitiveness programme and support from partners such as the Global VSAT Forum (GVF).

QuadSAT’s innovative drone-based system for test and verification of antennas and radio frequency equipment is fully automated, flexible, and location independent.  It consists of state-of-the-art drone technology, integrated with a custom RF payload as well as automation and measurement software. A broad range of testing missions can be undertaken, anytime, anywhere, depending on user requirements.

Recognising that one size does not fit all, customers can now either choose to acquire the productised version of QuadSAT’s test and verification technology, or use the managed service. How do you know which route is right for your needs? 

1. Acquire your own version and carry out testing missions as required 

This option is particularly useful for companies that have a lot of testing missions to complete. With this version, users will receive detailed training from QuadSAT prior to deployment, but will then be responsible for completing own test missions and obtaining own test results. Therefore, acquiring your own version may be right for you if, you have experienced staff on hand and are confident to operate the system yourself. You will also need to ensure that you have the appropriate resources to fly the drone and comply with relevant legislation. 

2. Use the managed service with testing carried out by QuadSAT engineers

If you feel that you don’t have the available resources to carry out your own testing as with the acquired version, the managed service may be a better fit for your company. This option may also be right for you if you want the peace of mind in knowing that QuadSAT is carrying out the testing, providing support, and handling drone requirements such as ensuring that all necessary permissions are in place to fly the drone.

QuadSAT will be presenting its drone-based solution for RF and antenna testing and measurements on its booth (U63) at Space Tech Expo in Bremen, Germany from 15th – 17th November.

For more information about how to access QuadSAT’s flexible, accurate and cost-efficient solution, or to book a meeting at Space Tech Expo, please visit https://quadsat.com/space-tech-expo-2022/

QuadSAT Productises its Drone-Based Antenna Testing Solution 

Odense, Denmark, 15th November 2022 – QuadSAT has launched a productised version of its ground-breaking drone-based antenna test and verification system. Previously available only as a managed service delivered by QuadSAT engineers, the solution can now be also be acquired for own testing needs. Users can carry out their own testing, anytime, anywhere, using QuadSAT’s testing solution.
 
QuadSAT’s innovative drone-based system for test and verification of antennas and radio frequency equipment is fully automated, flexible, and location independent.  It consists of state-of-the-art drone technology, integrated with a custom RF payload as well as automation and measurement software. A broad range of testing missions can be undertaken, anytime, anywhere, depending on user requirements. 
 
With this announcement, users can now carry out their own drone-based tests and measurements on antennas and radio frequency equipment, without the need for QuadSAT engineers on site. Users will receive detailed training from QuadSAT prior to deployment and support will be available as required. The managed service, which involves QuadSAT engineers carrying out the testing, will continue to be available when desired. 
 
The availability of the solution as a product was made possible through funding received from the ESA ARTES Core Competitiveness programme and support from partners such as the Global VSAT Forum (GVF).
 
Joakim Espeland, CEO of QuadSAT, commented: “Being able to deliver our solution as a product will help us to significantly scale deployment, bringing accurate yet cost-efficient testing to more users across the globe. While we will continue to deliver the service where it makes more sense, we anticipate many entities having to conduct ongoing tests will benefit from having their own version in house together with the training to deploy it effectively.”
 
QuadSAT will be presenting its drone-based solution for RF and antenna testing and measurements on its booth (U63) at Space Tech Expo in Bremen, Germany from 15th – 17th November. For more information or to book a meeting, please visit https://quadsat.com/space-tech-expo-2022/

Why Effective Antenna Testing is Critical for Future Network Success

After having been relatively constant for many years, the satellite industry is going through a period of significant change and development. LEO has become increasingly popular in recent years, which is unsurprising given the opportunities and benefits that it has the potential to deliver. Alongside the launch of mega constellations in LEO, we are also seeing a shift towards an increasingly multi-orbit environment. The demand for increased connectivity and high availability are key drivers behind both the rapid expansion in LEO and the need for agility across orbits and frequency bands. 

 

We’re increasingly seeing satellite operators merging MEO and GEO satellites with non-geostationary systems in order to meet the demand for high availability. With satellites in both MEO and GEO, SES has been building a multi-orbit network for some time. A number of other satellite operators have also now announced developments around multi-orbit systems. Intelsat recently partnered with OneWeb to bring multi-orbit connectivity to airlines worldwide, using OneWeb’s LEO satellite service combined with Intelsat’s existing GEO satellite service. Eutelsat and OneWeb have announced a merger to create a global multi orbit service.

 

While LEO satellites have the potential to transform the future of connectivity, their presence also creates technical challenges such as increased RF interference. While all satellites are at risk of RF interference, the non-geostationary nature of the mega constellations in LEO combined with their density, has amplified that risk. In order to minimise interference and service disruption, it is vital that antennas within the LEO ground segment are able to send and receive RF signals accurately. 

 

Designing new antennas

Antennas need to be designed to ensure that the ground segment is able to support and enable innovation in the satellite segment. Developing and designing new style antennas capable of providing continuous connectivity in a multi-orbit, multi-band and multi-network world is big business. According to recent analysis, the Satellite Antenna Market size was valued at USD 3.9 Billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 27.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 24.1% from 2023 to 2030. NSR predicted that revenue from FPA equipment sales alone is likely to generate nearly $17 billion in revenue over the next decade.

 

However, new style antennas will only be successful if they are operating as they should be. Added to that, as technologies such as 5G and IP continue to develop and improve, in order to remain competitive and relevant, as well as enabling these technologies, satellite operators have to ensure that their networks are operating seamlessly with no downtime. This is why accurate antenna testing and measurement is going to be more important than ever as we move forward. 

 

This doesn’t come without its own challenges. Antenna testing for non-geostationary LEO satellites is far more technically demanding than testing GEO or MEO geostationary satellite antennas. This is because of LEO antenna’s complex requirements such as the ability to track and switch satellites without losing connectivity. Traditional testing methods will most likely struggle to effectively meet the needs of tomorrow’s satellite services. This is where drone technology can really make a difference to antenna testing and measurement. 

 

Drone technology is revolutionising antenna testing

 

QuadSAT has developed a drone-based system for test and verification of radio frequency equipment. The system consists of state-of-the-art drone technology integrated with a custom RF payload as well as automation and measurement software. It is fully automated, and operationally flexible so can be used anytime and anywhere. It is also cost effective, reducing logistics and test time. 

 

Join us at Space Tech Expo

QuadSAT will be at Space Tech Expo in Bremen, Germany on 15th – 17th November. Join us for a panel discussion on ‘Designing the All Singing, All Dancing Antenna: Responding to End-user Terminal Requirement for Future Network Success’.

 

To find out more about our testing capabilities, visit QuadSAT on booth U63.