Alen Space has completed the first demonstrator pilot campaign of VDES technology using its SATMAR satellite over the Bay of Algeciras in southern Spain.
In the first pilot, SATMAR supported message exchanges between a vessel and the Port Authority.
Satmar aims to demonstrate the viability of the VDES communication standard in orbit to open a new era for the maritime sector.
Alén Space developed the Satmar satellite as part of a project involving partner company Egatel and collaboration with the Gradiant technology center.
The SATMAR satellite will be equipped with a high-capacity software defined radio platform to implement a VDE satellite transceiver (VDE-SAT) for a VHF frequency band and a high-speed ground link in a single module.
SATMAR plans to launch a 6U small satellite scheduled for early 2024.