Clyde Space 3U satellite rendering. Photo: Clyde Space

[Via Satellite 11-29-2016] Clyde Space, a Scottish satellite manufacturer, has struck a new deal with a major Canadian satellite communications service company to manufacture two nanosatellites. Clyde Space has signed a contract with Kepler Communications to supply two 3U spacecraft, which will launch Kepler’s Software-Defined Radio (SDR) and antenna array next year.

The Clyde Space nanosatellites will support Kepler in deploying its in-space telecommunications network, which will use nanosatellites to relay data in real-time for devices deployed in terrestrial, remote operations and satellites deployed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

The Canadian company said the contract marked “a milestone in Kepler Communication’s long-term vision to provide real-time connectivity for the devices that gather the world’s information.” Kepler expects the network to reduce reliance on costly, difficult to deploy, ground infrastructure and increase its global interconnectivity at a fraction of the normal cost.

The Kepler network, powered by the Clyde Space nanosatellites, aims to open new business opportunities reliant on real-time satellite connectivity. The satellites, which measure 30 cm x 10 cm x 10cm, support an increasing range of new and technically challenging space applications.

Data generated from the satellites will have a range of applications, including intelligent shipping, smart agriculture, traffic management and wearable technologies.