Kepler sets January launch for optical data relay satellites to expand in-orbit connectivity

Written by Copernical Team Wednesday, 19 November 2025 06:16

font size decrease font size increase font size
Print
Email

Berlin, Germany (SPX) Nov 19, 2025

Kepler Communications has scheduled the launch of ten 300-kilogram-class satellites in January 2026, marking the operational rollout of its optical data relay constellation. The launch will use a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Each satellite will carry a minimum of four optical terminals that enable high-throughput laser links for space, air, and ground data transm

by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Nov 19, 2025

Kepler Communications has scheduled the launch of ten 300-kilogram-class satellites in January 2026, marking the operational rollout of its optical data relay constellation. The launch will use a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Each satellite will carry a minimum of four optical terminals that enable high-throughput laser links for space, air, and ground data transmission.

The constellation is built for compatibility with the U.S. Space Development Agency's (SDA) optical communications standard, providing seamless integration across government and commercial space infrastructure. The satellites form an IP-based mesh network for dynamic, real-time data routing between orbit and Earth, targeting applications that require low latency and high bandwidth.

"Optical data relay is redefining how space systems communicate, operate, and deliver value," said Mina Mitry, chief executive officer and co-founder of Kepler Communications. "It removes the high latency and bottlenecks of traditional RF links and allows our customers to move data continuously, securely, and at the speed of light. With real-time connectivity and advanced computing in orbit, operators can unlock new possibilities for defence and intelligence, real-time situational awareness, commercial innovation, and sustained human operations in space. Together, these advancements are creating the foundation for a truly connected space economy."

The satellites support on-orbit GPU and CPU processing, storage, and modular hosted payloads, offering edge computing and direct data analysis in space. This infrastructure is designed to enable real-time analytics for Earth observation, automate mission operations, and support AI-driven decisions.

Customers can connect to the network through standard interfaces and APIs and receive defined service level agreements for predictable availability and data delivery. The network allows users to scale operations rapidly and eliminates the need for bespoke ground infrastructure.

Kepler plans to increase network capacity through future tranches and is developing 100-gigabit optical technology for its next generation of satellites, ensuring backward compatibility and interoperability with SDA and ESTOL standards.