Kepler plans to increase network capacity through future tranches.
Kepler's system changes reflect compliance with updated FCC rules, including the requirement for a satellite to deorbit within a 5-year period.
Kepler's operational system will provide real-time, laser-based connectivity and in-orbit computing for commercial and government customers.
Kepler's optical data relay system will enable real-time Earth observation analytics, autonomous mission operations, and AI-driven decision-making in orbit.
In April, Kepler announced that Axiom Space had purchased two initial on-orbit computing payloads.
Kepler launched two pathfinder satellites, ÆTHER-1 and ÆTHER-2, in November 2023.
Kepler's optical data relay network is designed for compatibility with the U.S. Space Development Agency's optical communications standards.
The launch is part of Kepler's development of the Kepler Network.
Kepler announced a strategic shift for its optical data relay network in 2023.
Kepler will launch its initial tranche of next-generation optical data relay satellites in January.
Kepler's optical data relay network combines high-capacity communications with advanced on-orbit computing.
Kepler is building 300-kilogram-class satellites instead of the previously planned 12-kilogram satellites.
The 23 satellites launched by Kepler include two test satellites, two pathfinder optical relay network satellites, and 19 RF satellites.
The new satellites planned by Kepler will be 260 kg in size compared to the originally planned 12 kg size.
If Kepler is to launch this year, it is likely to be on the SpaceX Transporter-15 flight.
Kepler is planning to launch the first tranche of 10 new larger satellites for its optical data relay network as early as Q4 2023.
Kepler's commercial LEO constellation, The Kepler Network, will serve as a communication backbone to connect on-orbit platforms with multi-domain assets.
The Kepler Network is expected to launch in early 2026.
Kepler's first tranche of data relay satellites is set to launch in early 2026.
Kepler's commercial LEO constellation, the Kepler Network, will serve as a communication backbone to connect on-orbit platforms with multi-domain assets.