Rendering of Intelsat-45, based on the HummingSat product line by Swissto12. Photo: Swissto12.

Intelsat has ordered Intelsat-45 from Swissto12, based on the HummingSat product line, which is smaller than typical satellites in Geostationary Orbit (GEO).  This deal makes Intelsat the first commercial customer for the HummingSat for the Swiss startup. 

The satellite is scheduled for launch in 2025 and will provide Ku-band fixed-satellite services for media and network customers.

“The small size addresses a gap in our fleet strategy, enabling us to be increasingly more targeted to meet specific customer requirements,” commented Jean-Luc Froeliger, senior vice president of Space Systems. 

The HummingSat line, named after the Hummingbird, is three to ten times smaller than typical GEO satellites, and is designed to launch as a rideshare mission. It has approximately 2 kW of power, and has 3D printed radio frequency products and systems. The product line has been developed under a partnership project between Swissto12 and the European Space Agency, and recently passed its ESA system requirements review. 

“It is unprecedented for a specialist high growth scale up to secure a contract of this depth with a leading telecommunications operator. It provides a solid start to our HummingSat product line to open a new chapter in the satellite communications industry,” commented Swissto12 CEO Emile de Rijk.