Secure, Agile, and Now Space-Bound: ASTRO’s Communications Evolution
20/06/2025
We’re excited to share how we’re adapting ASTRO, our wideband adaptive radio unit, for use in space. Originally designed for fast, secure communication on the ground, ASTRO is now being developed for satellite communications, backed by UK Defence and Space experts.
What We Achieved in Phase 2 of Our Space Mission
With £275,000 in funding awarded so far, we’ve just completed Phase 2 of our project. This phase focused on figuring out how to make ASTRO tough enough to work in space — where conditions are more extreme and reliability is critical.
Expanding Our Expertise from Earth to Space
Our team has years of experience working at the intersection of radio frequency (RF) and digital technologies, helping to create smarter, more reliable sensing and communications systems. Now, we’re cross-fertilising that knowledge with the expertise of space engineers to meet new challenges.
We’ve previously supported the development of advanced radar and signal intelligence systems for major UK defence companies, and that experience has prepared us well.
Why ASTRO Is a Game-Changer for Satellite Communications
ASTRO is a strong fit for the future of satellite networks because of its proven success on the ground. It’s software-defined and hardware-agnostic, meaning it can be updated remotely — a major advantage when systems are orbiting hundreds of miles above Earth.
Its compact design also makes it ideal for satellite payloads, where every inch of space and every gram of weight really matters.
Discover our part in the YO-RAN project, transforming terrestrial communications infrastructure.
Supporting the UK’s Future Space Engineers
We’re passionate about helping the next generation of engineers grow. This project has been a great opportunity for our team to build new skills in the exciting and fast-evolving field of space technology.
What’s Next for ASTRO’s Journey to Space?
We’re continuing to work closely with leaders in space innovation to prepare ASTRO for space. Our mission is to strengthen the UK’s space communication capabilities — improving sovereignty, resilience, and security.
Potential applications include using digital beamforming to map and observe Earth, ready to provide environmental disaster relief, and communicating with other satellites.
Stay tuned to find out more about our progress in getting ASTRO to space.
