The GIoT (Global Internet of Things) project had the ambition to be the first pilot and commercialization project of a global Nanosatellite-powered “constellation as a service" solution to offer network operators easy and low-cost access to space-to-ground communications. The GIoT system architecture could serve Internet of the Things (IoT) and Machine to Machine (M2M) network operators of both terrestrial and satellite-based; the architecture could expand network coverage over oceans and remote areas where cellular networks are not presently available, and could provide a lower-cost access solution to regions where cellular networks already exist.
The GioT brought three critical key partners and their unique expertise together to create the combined offer of novel service. Through the GIoT project, the consortium of NanoAvionics, Antwerp Space, and KSAT sorted out to improve the accessibility of satellite-based IoT solutions for new operators through combining NanoAvionics small satellite buses, KSAT ground station network and Antwerp Space inter-satellite link sub-system. The project consortium was developing professional small satellite constellations-based service-infrastructure, which would support global telecommunication businesses.
The main objectives of the GIoT project were: 1) Bring GIoT project technologies from the current TRL6 to TRL8; 2) Prepare for commercialization and scale-up. The project output was a deployment of the new generation MP42 satellite-based communications system at TRL8.
The core GIoT technologies that have been developed: I. A multi-functional small satellite bus, designated as the MP42 (NanoAvionics); II. An inter-satellite communications link (ISL) (Antwerp Space); III. A fleet of commercial ground stations (KSAT and NanoAvionics); IV. A GIoT software Application Programming Interface (API) (NanoAvionics).
It successfully achieved GIoT project goal - MP42 bus carrying ISL system in-orbit demonstration, however, without capabilities for LEO-GEO communication. GIoT project must be deemed as a successful demonstration of the consortium's capabilities to produce a scalable joint product through combined technologies.
The project was following the so-called NewSpace philosophy, which is centered around low-cost, high functionality, and optimal quality small satellite technologies.
