Sateliot: A Spain‑led 5G‑IoT Nano‑Satellite Initiative Goes Spacebound
Sateliot, a Spanish company, has announced the first constellation of low‑orbit nano‑satellites designed to provide 5G connectivity for the Internet of Things. The company plans to launch the initial satellite in April, marking the first 5G satellite milestone aimed at expanding IoT development. The project, described by Sateliot as epochal, seeks to redefine satellite telecommunications with a nano‑satellite that serves as a cornerstone. It will be among the first to offer satellite services to mobile users.
The introduction of 5G is viewed as a paradigm shift. It is expected to place Spain in the international spotlight and support a national project backed by major players such as Indra, Cellnex, and Sepides, according to Sateliot sources.
Until now, satellite systems have largely used proprietary technology that connects only IoT devices from the same brand. Sateliot proposes a different approach: any mobile operator could connect to the satellite network when terrestrial coverage is unavailable or cost is a concern, enabling broader, more flexible IoT connectivity.
In practice, any 5G‑IoT device could be linked via satellite or cellular networks. This paves the way for IoT deployment in the most remote regions. The initial launch will enable data transmission services as the satellite passes overhead, with the goal of expanding to a six‑satellite constellation by year’s end. Continuous service is anticipated as the network grows.
Sateliot signed on to the 3GPP 5G NB‑IoT NTN Release 17 standard, collaborating with Qualcomm, Sony, Samsung and other partners under the aim of democratizing satellite connectivity. The company promotes a simple, inclusive model with a slogan that translates to anything, everywhere, with device costs starting at around one euro.
Catalan NASA? A Regional Initiative Turns Global
Sateliot drew public attention when the Generalitat Government highlighted the creation of a Catalan nano‑satellite network sometimes described as a Catalan NASA. The project was framed as a regional achievement, though the market dynamics soon shifted attention toward a broader, global private sector. From the outset, Sateliot pursued transnational collaboration, forging agreements with the Madrid government, opening shareholding, and building commercial ties with U.S. firms while aligning with large technology multinationals. What some called NASA Catalana would become a private network led by Sateliot.
For the mission, Sateliot enlisted four aerospace partners. Endurosat, a European firm with extensive nanosatellite experience since 2015, led design, development and operation in collaboration with Sateliot. Allen Space contributed payload manufacturing, while the Danish company Hombor (note: placeholder) focused on software. SpaceX is set to manage the launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA.
Outlook and Projections
The plan includes launching five additional nano‑satellites this year, signaling a vibrant commercial phase for Sateliot. Industry estimates project 64 nanosatellites in orbit in 2024 and 250 by 2025. From the second satellite onward, service to mobile operators will be possible even when coverage is sparse. Looking ahead to 2026, Sateliot targets a turnover of one billion euros and an EBITDA of 370 million euros. Commercial agreements already in place exceed a billion euros with operators that include Telefónica and other major names, supported by a growing customer base surpassing 1,200 partners.
In recent weeks, payload integration, logistics, and extensive pre‑launch testing have progressed. The satellite was positioned for launch on SpaceX’s orbital platform, following strict export controls and verification procedures to ensure readiness. It is already mounted in the launch vehicle’s adapter, to be deployed during Falcon 9’s ascent. The activation system will manage the distribution and deployment sequence once the vehicle reaches orbit.
According to Jaume Sanpera, founder and CEO of Sateliot, the company is entering a new dimension both technologically and commercially. He envisions Sateliot owning one of the three IoT constellations that will operate globally under the 5G standard, delivering connectivity across continents.