SWISSto12 and Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems have established a partnership to offer mini-GEO satellites. The two companies aim to provide customized satellites at competitive cost, with telecom payloads in X-, Ka, Q and V-Band. Swissto12 will contribute the telecom payload and 3D printed RF products, while Tyvak brings mission operations, platform and payload expertise. The two companies will leverage their engineering teams in Europe and the U.S. to expedite the delivery of mini-GEO fleets.

Mini-GEO satellites weigh 100 to 500 kg, fly in geostationary orbits and typically provide regional telecommunications coverage. According to the companies, the market lacks experienced and trusted mini-GEO providers with a space heritage of performance and reliability, capable of achieving pricing meeting the market’s expectations.

“There is a lot of opportunity in mini-GEO satellites, but the pace of development and delivery is hindered by the availability of products that can truly handle the performance and cost challenges, while mitigating the risks of space.” — Emile de Rijk, CEO of SWISSto12

SWISSto12 has developed advanced 3D printing technology for satellites, providing high performance, light weight and unique geometries for RF components and payloads.

With headquarters in Irvine, California, Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems was founded in 2013 to miniature space technologies and provides end-to-end nanosatellite and microsatellite services and solutions for U.S. government agencies and commercial enterprises.

“Tyvak has invested in GEO bus technology for years and we are pleased to extend our reach and apply agile aerospace processes to the telecommunications sector.” — Marco Villa, COO of Tyvak