Astrocast IoT Satellite Network
Description
Astrocast operates a global IoT satellite communication network using a constellation of L-band CubeSats in LEO, providing two-way low-data-rate connectivity for remote assets and sensors where terrestrial cellular networks are unavailable. The network enables machine-to-machine (M2M) communication for maritime vessels, remote monitoring stations, pipeline monitoring, precision agriculture sensors, and wildlife tracking devices worldwide.
Each Astrocast CubeSat (3U–6U) carries an L-band (1.6 GHz) transceiver compatible with Astrocast's ground-based LPWAN devices. Messages are typically small (10s to 100s of bytes) but can be delivered globally within 1–6 hours. The service targets applications where cost, power consumption, and network coverage are the primary constraints — L-band penetrates light rain and vegetation better than Ka/Ku bands.
Astrocast (formerly Else) is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, and has launched satellites on multiple SpaceX rideshare missions. The company's primary competition is Iridium's IoT services, Globalstar SPOT, Kineis (French), and terrestrial LoRaWAN networks. Astrocast's technology was developed in collaboration with ESA's BIC programme and Swiss startup ecosystem.
Specifications
| Frequency | L-band (1.6 GHz) |
|---|---|
| Service | Two-way IoT messaging (10s–100s bytes) |
| Latency | 1–6 hours (store-and-forward) |
| Form factor | 3U–6U CubeSats |
| Applications | Maritime, agriculture, pipeline, wildlife, remote assets |
| HQ | Lausanne, Switzerland |
| Founded | 2016 (as Else) |
