Telesat is a Canadian satellite communications company and operator, providing connectivity solutions to telecom, government, and enterprise clients globally. They are currently developing Telesat Lightspeed, a low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation of 198 satellites designed for high-speed, low-latency broadband services. Telesat partners with companies like MDA Space, Orange, and Intellian for satellite manufacturing, terrestrial infrastructure, and user terminals. The company aims to begin launching satellites in 2026, with the constellation fully operational by 2027.
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In September 2025, Telesat distributed 62% of the equity of its Telesat Lightspeed Low-Earth Orbit business to an indirect subsidiary of Telesat Corporation.
Aalyria previously provided orchestration for Telesat’s Lightspeed constellation and Rivada Space Networks.
Telesat will deploy two pathfinder Lightspeed satellites late this year.
Telesat plans to deploy 154 Lightspeed satellites in 2027.
Telesat plans to expand its initial Lightspeed constellation to 198 satellites.
Telesat has two Lightspeed pathfinder satellites scheduled for launch in late 2026.
Telesat plans to launch 153 satellites in 2027.
In December 2024 Canada’s Defence Investment Agency selected Telesat and MDA Space to deliver a multi-frequency Arctic milsatcom capability as part of ESCPP.
All satellites tracked for 2026 are classified as small satellites under 500 kg with the exception of two Telesat Lightspeed pathfinder satellites.
Telesat’s Lightspeed constellation is scheduled to begin launching satellites at the end of 2026 with full global coverage, including the Arctic, by the end of 2027.
The CTS program helped develop the capability for Canadian industry to supply communications satellites to Telesat Canada and Brazil.
Satellite constellations like Starlink, AST SpaceMobile, and Telesat Lightspeed require millions of users to be financially viable.
Telesat's full Lightspeed constellation ramp-up is scheduled through 2027.
Mission Microwave will provide solid state power block upconverters for the landing stations for Telesat Lightspeed.
Under the agreement, MDA Space and Telesat will collaborate on the development and demonstration of next-generation communications services that can deliver low-latency data links, improved bandwidth, and enhanced resilience against interference and disruption.
Aneesh Dalvi is Telesat’s Vice President of Lightspeed Systems Development.
Mission Microwave Technologies, LLC has been awarded a contract to design and deliver solid-state power block upconverters (BUCs) for the Telesat Lightspeed Landing Station network.
The contract award coincides with Telesat's preparation for its first Lightspeed Pathfinder launches in late 2026.
Telesat has secured significant terrestrial partnerships including a multi-year deal with Vocus in Australia for its first Southern Hemisphere Landing Station.
Mission Microwave is established as a primary supplier of terrestrial infrastructure for Telesat’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation.