The Power of Multi-Orbit Satellite Networks
As the demand for reliable, high-speed global communications continues to grow, adding Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) satellites to existing Geostationary Satellite Orbit (GSO) systems presents a game-changing opportunity. This multi-orbit approach enhances network performance, ensuring seamless, scalable, and resilient connectivity for consumers, businesses, and critical applications.
A key step toward realizing this vision is the strategic collaboration between Ligado and AST SpaceMobile to bring multi-orbit capabilities to the forefront in North America, leveraging the strengths of both companies to deliver enhanced mobile satellite services. This collaboration will enable reliable, high-performance connectivity that supports both consumer and enterprise applications on a global scale.
Why Add NGSO to GSO?
Traditional GSO satellites have long provided stable and widespread coverage, but they come with inherent limitations, including higher latency and bandwidth constraints in high-demand areas. NGSO satellites, particularly those in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), complement GSO systems by reducing latency, expanding coverage, and boosting network capacity.
By leveraging both systems together, satellite operators can deliver a superior communications experience that meets the evolving needs of modern society.
Key Benefits of Multi-Orbit Networks
NGSO satellites orbit much closer to Earth, significantly reducing the time it takes for signals to travel. This low-latency capability is crucial for applications such as video conferencing, telemedicine, financial transactions, and interactive gaming—where every millisecond counts.
While GSO satellites efficiently serve densely populated areas, their fixed position limits coverage to a set footprint. NGSO satellites, on the other hand, are constantly in motion—unlocking the ability to reach remote and underserved regions such as polar areas, oceans, and other challenging environments. Adding NGSO satellites ensures truly global coverage.
NGSO satellites enable dynamic bandwidth allocation, ensuring high-speed performance even during peak demand. By offloading traffic from congested GSO networks, a hybrid approach optimizes service delivery, making satellite connectivity faster and more efficient.
A multi-orbit network reduces the risk of service interruptions caused by space weather, equipment failures, or interference. If a GSO satellite experiences downtime, NGSO satellites can provide immediate backup, ensuring seamless and continuous connectivity for critical applications.
A multi-orbit approach enables operators to deliver more flexible, high-performance connectivity while making the most of limited spectrum resources. By intelligently matching network capabilities with application needs, operators can optimize performance, cost, and capacity, maximizing spectral efficiency and improving overall service economics.