Abstract

Transcelestial’s lasers will play a crucial role in powering 6GStarLab, Europe’s first Low-Earth Orbit laboratory for non-terrestrial network research, set to launch by i2CAT in October 2025. This initiative, part of the UNICO I+D 6G programme, aims to significantly advance research and development of 6G technologies by facilitating real-world testing and validation in space. The project will enhance connections between satellite networks and terrestrial infrastructures, promoting innovation across various sectors.

Key Points

• i2CAT has contracted Open Cosmos to manufacture and launch 6GStarLab, the pioneering satellite for low-orbit open research in Europe.
• The initiative is funded by the NextGeneration EU funds under the Spanish Government’s UNICO I+D 6G programme, aiming to bolster non-terrestrial network research.
• Scheduled for launch in October 2025, 6GStarLab is expected to become operational by early 2026, enabling real-time experimentation with 6G technologies.
• The satellite will facilitate research on the integration of satellite networks with existing terrestrial infrastructures, enhancing overall connectivity.
• Equipped with an optical terminal, 6GStarLab aims to accelerate space-to-ground communication and validate multi-frequency devices and virtualization techniques.
• The i2CAT research centre plans to publish findings and make the satellite infrastructure available to the scientific community for future communications research.
• Funding for the project underscores Spain’s commitment to leading advancements in 5G and 6G technology development.

About Transcelestial

Transcelestial is building a space laser network to deliver a step-change in internet Transcelestial has mass-produced a solution for superfast Internet distribution to deliver a step-change in connectivity globally. Its technology leverages its proprietary wireless laser communication technology to create a wireless distribution network between buildings, traditional cell towers, street-level poles and other physical infrastructure – with a much lower total operating cost for Mobile Network Operators, Internet Service Providers and enterprises.

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