ESA SkyPhi Mission to be Led by MDA Space UK
Will Enable Regenerative 5G Direct-to-Device (D2D) Satellite Communications From LEO
The European Space Agency (ESA) has selected MDA Space UK as the prime contractor for its SkyPhi mission. The announcement was made at the recent UK Space Conference in Manchester.
"The collaboration between MDA Space, CGI and Open Cosmos demonstrates the power of partnership in solving complex technical challenges."
Dr. Craig Brown, UK Space Agency
Funded by the ESA and the UKSA, the mission is part of the ARTES (Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems) program that will enable regenerative 5G direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications from low Earth orbit (LEO).
SkyPhi supports the development and validation of innovative satcom technologies with strong commercial potential. MDA Space UK will lead phases A and B of the mission in collaboration with UK-based mission partners CGI and Open Cosmos, combining proven strengths in satellite platforms and operations, secure communications, network integration, and advanced payload systems.
"This pioneering project led by MDA Space represents the kind of innovation the UK space sector needs to maintain its competitive edge. By starting the development of an end-to-end 5G direct-to-device satellite communications system with a LEO satellite and UK-based ground infrastructure, the project is placing the UK as a leader in new satellite technologies," said Dr. Craig Brown, Director of Investment at the UK Space Agency. "The collaboration between MDA Space, CGI and Open Cosmos demonstrates the power of partnership in solving complex technical challenges."
"Our mission at MDA Space is to turn the proven into the possible, and with the support of the UK Space Agency and ESA, we're putting that goal in motion and advancing a bold vision for satellite-enabled 5G services and the industrial base of the UK space industry," said Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA Space.