I go ! This, IMHO, is where, those that are trying to catch up " in our area of 'EXPERTISE' currently, reside, on all accounts.View attachment 38557
View attachment 38558
PS: You are now "privy" to Bard's misinformation and high jinks.
<<<<<
Do you trust it?
The other day someone telling me a story on radio about chat gpt
www.ipinternational.net
SoftBank, the Japanese conglomerate that owns Arm.
Haven’t had time to look into Relativity Space, yet, which could obviously be another/the real reason why Nandan liked this post.Given the fact that Nandan Nayampally liked this
View attachment 38566
View attachment 38567
… I had a closer look at the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications company OneWeb last night, that is similar to Elon Musk’s Starlink (which has already deployed about 4000 small satellites as opposed to OneWeb‘s 634 so far).
Edge
computing
Space-based connectivity for edge computing
Storing, computing, and analysing data through space
Download solution details PDF
Storing, computing,
and analysing data through space
The low latency technology in low Earth orbit (LEO) network communications allows edge computing solutions to function with standard off-the-shelf computation software and latency-sensitive applications such as artificial or virtual reality, rather than highly bespoke toolkits for GEO connectivity.
This shift has made edge computing a more viable architecture in many instances compared to cloud computing, where smart technology is reliant on business-critical data to be forwarded and processed at speed.
Edge computing solutions that are located close to the sources of data acquisition and analysis can deliver information faster, so content delivery networks can become more highly responsive, applications more personalised, and customer experience improved, especially in remote and hard-to-reach locations.
Edge computing solutions can deliver information faster
Connectivity challenges
Edge computing systems need to be available no matter where the site is (cloud-like) and still meet stringent latency requirements given how mission-critical the data processing may be for operations.
On the ground, edge computing requires a power supply, predictive and automatic maintenance capabilities, and security around the site.
In the enterprise sector especially, organisations have to be able to scale and deploy edge computing solutions at speed if they are to benefit from the rapid growth in Internet of Things (IoT) applications and devices. According to International Data Corporation (IDC), enterprise IoT spending will reach $208 billion in 2022 in Europe and continue with double-digit growth through 2026.
IoT spending will reach $208 billion in 2022 in Europe
Connectivity solutions
As demand for cloud storage rises, and IoT applications expand that rely on AI and ML, computational architecture is shifting away from central servers. An enterprise may choose to distribute data across multiple processors, i.e. edges, rather than processing all of it in the cloud.
Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity can provide businesses with the reach and infrastructure needed to enable location-sensitive edge computing. This in turn helps reduce the cost of transporting data to a remote cloud, and ensuring data is accessed reliably
Computational architecture is shifting away from central servers
Enhanced opportunities
Powering a changing world
The low latency in LEO-network solutions allows us to deploy more commercial off-the-shelf software to the edge, in contrast to the highly bespoke tool kits that often characterise GEO connectivity.
Additionally, enterprises are able to reduce their reliance on the cloud and harness the benefits of edge computing using affordable hardware, and reliable connectivity that meets committed information rates and Service Level Agreement requirements.
Rapid edge protection
LEO is quick to deploy and easy to manage, with high bandwidth and low latency. The global reach of LEO can keep edge up and running for enterprises as a primary connectivity or backup solution. Its fast deployment means it is ideal for connecting branch offices or pop-up outlets on demand.
Remote operations
Remote sites such as gas stations, construction projects, or farming locations, can rely more on sensors for critical information gathering, including photographic records, measurements, and tracking. Data is transmitted to the nearby edge network, where it is processed and returned at speed for specific outputs. These may include controlled irrigation levels, or how much fertiliser to put down. Edge makes a big difference for companies that have a lot of data to process.
LEO is quick to deploy and easy to manage
Enabling
new applications
The digital citizen
The extension of digital literacy through edge technology, lowering barriers to entry for participation as a citizen in society.Global connectivity
Network solutions and plans bundled together with edge products to create new global platforms for cloud applications.Reduced disruption
Primary and backup support for business-critical solutions and services, providing access to and processing of raw data at the edge of industryNew business models
Through-space edge computing for new Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) forms of cloud computing.Manufacturing
The ability to store, manage, and analyse data close to source, reducing network time and costEnabling retail
Retail operations at remote sites, using satellite-enabled edge to power point-of-sale (POS) and in-store applications.Remote healthcare
Satellite-enabled edge for managing health industry data to improve public services in hard-to-reach placesMachine learning (ML)
ML benefits from “freshness” of real-time edge data; more frequent and at higher resolution intervals of observation. Additional context can lead to more accurate predictionsAutonomous vehicles
Driverless vehicles reliant on sensors to operate and ensure passenger safety, using high-speed data and split-second process of information.Microfinancing
Improved access to financial services in hard-to-reach places supports greater economic self-sufficiency
Global space-based connectivity
made easy
OneWeb LEO satellite connectivity gives companies across all industries the flexible, scalable, and reliable edge computing capabilities that they need to enhance existing communications solutions and power IoT applications.
Access OneWeb connectivity with a new class of User Terminal that brings function, design, and easy-to-use LEO technology together. Simple to order, deliver, install, and maintain, for primary, backup, and hybrid network solutions that meet the demands of today’s digitally powered business world.
New class of User Terminal that brings function, design, and easy-to-use LEO technology together.
Read more
Cloud gaming solution
LEO network solutions for connecting gamers everywhere&n...
Aquaculture solution
Space-based connectivity for Aquaculture
Agriculture solution
Space-based connectivity for agriculture.
——————————————————————————————————
A month ago, OneWeb confirmed the successful deployment of 16 satellites “including next-generation JoeySat”:
OneWeb confirms successful deployment of 16 satellites including next-generation JoeySat
- Launch 19 brings the total OneWeb constellation to 634 satellites, increasing redundancy and resiliency as global coverage nears activation
- Launch includes innovative JoeySat, a demonstration satellite previewing next-generation capabilities
London, 20 May 2023 – OneWeb, the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications company, today confirmed the successful deployment of 16 satellites that will provide increased resilience and redundancy to the OneWeb constellation as the company progresses toward global services. Included in this key batch is JoeySat, a satellite that will test an innovative beam-hopping capability which will allow satellites to switch between different places on Earth and adjust the strength of the communications signals based on customer needs or demands.
Liftoff occurred on 20 May at 6:16 PT (local) from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. OneWeb’s satellites separated successfully from the vehicle and were dispensed in eight phases over a period of 1 hour and 26 minutes, and signal acquisition on all 16 satellites has been confirmed. The launch marked OneWeb’s fourth successful launch with SpaceX.
With 634 satellites now in-orbit, OneWeb is on track to deliver global coverage this year and is already in the process of scaling services for customers around the world. With the addition of the satellites deployed from this launch, OneWeb will increase the resiliency and redundancy in the constellation as it expands services to its growing base of enterprise and government customers.
The 16th satellite launched today is nicknamed JoeySat. Developed through the European Space Agency and UKSA Sunrise Partnership programme, JoeySat carries an innovative payload design which will demonstrate digital regenerative processing, electronically steered multi-beam arrays, and digital beamforming and beam-hopping technologies. These capabilities, planned for OneWeb’s Gen 2 constellation, will offer more flexibility and capacity to customers, optimizing resources to manage real-time surges in commercial demand or to enable rapid responses to emergencies such as natural disasters.
This new digital payload is developed in the UK by our Sunrise programme partner, Satixfy UK. JoeySat is also an integral component of the End-to-End system validations, testing innovative features including 5G Pilot Tests, which will be performed in collaboration with University of Surrey UK, Celestia UK and Satixfy UK. The aim is to create an interoperable network integrating space and ground assets by which OneWeb will be able to seamlessly manage backhaul to support 5G connectivity.
Also on board JoeySat is a Radiation Monitor, developed by partners Oledcomm and Advacam, which will measure and monitor the radiation environment in LEO, and provide critical information to OneWeb and the scientific community for future missions.
Neil Masterson, Chief Executive Officer of OneWeb, commented: “We are excited to see the successful completion of our 19th launch, which would not have been possible without our committed team and our enormously skilled launch partners. We have made tremendous progress in scaling our services, and today’s launch is a testament to our commitment to continue improving our service to our customers. Never ones to rest on our laurels, we also view this launch as proof positive of our drive to innovate, as we test new technologies that will usher in the future of our connectivity capabilities and services. We now look ahead to scaling our services as well as making important advancements in the future of connectivity.”
————————————————————————————————————
Could the name JoeySat, jointly developed by ESA and the UKSA Sunrise Partnership programme, be hinting at an Australian company being part of that project?! I had a look at ESA’s website that confirmed my suspicion that the satellite was indeed nick-named JoeySat after a baby kangaroo, although the explanation given here is that it is a “beam-hopping satellite”.
Beam-hopping JoeySat ready for launch
An advanced broadband satellite that will provide high-speed internet connectivity from low Earth orbit is on its way to the launch pad.www.esa.int
Beam-hopping JoeySat ready for launch
06/04/20231186 VIEWS35 LIKES
ESA / Applications / Connectivity and Secure Communications
An advanced broadband satellite that will provide high-speed internet connectivity from low Earth orbit is on its way to the launch pad.
The beam-hopping satellite – nicknamed JoeySat after a baby kangaroo – will demonstrate connectivity for people travelling by air, sea or on land, and preparing for fast 5G connectivity from space.
Its fully digital beam-hopping and beam-steering payload can switch the satellite capacity between different places on Earth up to 1000 times per second. The signal strength can also be adjusted to meet demand.
This will enable JoeySat to respond to real-time surges in commercial high-quality and connectivity demands – or during emergencies such as natural disasters.
Developed under the Sunrise Partnership Project between ESA and telecommunications operator OneWeb, JoeySat will demonstrate key technologies for OneWeb’s next generation constellation, as part of the ESA Sunrise project with support from the UK Space Agency.
Its advanced digital regenerative payload was built by SatixFy in the UK and the payload environmental tests were completed in the UK.
JoeySat left OneWeb's facilities in Florida on 4 April for a road trip across America to Vandenberg in California.
———————————————————————————————————
Somewhat surprisingly, OneWeb and Starlink (a division of SpaceX), while both LEO satellite communication companies, are not head-to-head competitors, but are even collaborating (see article above: “The launch marked OneWeb’s fourth successful launch with SpaceX.”)
Starlink vs. OneWeb: How Do They Compare? | IP Access International
Today, there are two competing pioneers in the satellite connectivity industry. In this guide, we’re comparing Starlink vs OneWeb to see how they stack up.
Starlink vs. OneWeb: How Do They Compare?
POSTED ON JANUARY 31, 2023 BY IP ACCESS
It’s an exciting time to be alive: A new space race is happening in the skies above us. But this time, the two “competitors” aren’t rival nations. Instead, it’s Starlink vs. OneWeb.
These private satellite broadband companies are working to make space-based connectivity a reality. The two organizations have already begun building networks of worldwide internet coverage by launching hundreds of satellites into low Earth orbit.
While OneWeb and Starlink are similar in many ways, they differ significantly. In fact, contrary to popular belief, these organizations don’t necessarily see themselves as head-to-head competitors.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at this semi-collaborative space race between two of the most innovative companies of our generation.
What is Starlink?
Starlink is a division of SpaceX, the space exploration company headed by billionaire Elon Musk. With a “mega constellation” of satellites that circle the Earth, Starlink aims to make from-anywhere connectivity possible for the average person.
Starlink began launching satellites in 2019, using SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets to hurtle the first segments of the Starlink constellation beyond the atmosphere. Today, the company offers internet access to more than 30 countries.
What is OneWeb?
Founded in 2012, OneWeb is a UK-based broadband satellite organization that’s also looking to expand connectivity across the globe. In the words of OneWeb CEO Neil Masterson, the company works to “provide fiber where there’s no fiber.”
OneWeb may look like the underdog next to Starlink, but the company is well beyond startup status. OneWeb has the support of various high-profile international investors and organizations, including:
With so many major players throwing their hats in the ring, it’s clear that OneWeb’s satellite operations have a promising future.
- The UK government
- The Indian telecom firm Bharti Global
- The Japanese investment group SoftBank Group
Comparing Starlink vs. OneWeb
So, Starlink and OneWeb both send satellites into orbit to provide internet to terrestrial users. But how and why do they do it? And what capabilities do their solutions have?
Goals and Purpose
Starlink and OneWeb may be “rivals” in a business sense, but they’re also peers. In some cases, they’ve even collaborated, with OneWeb using SpaceX rockets to launch at least 40 new satellites into orbit.
This partnership isn’t a conflict of interest because, in many ways, OneWeb and Starlink aren’t directcompetitors. Instead, the two organizations have different objectives, philosophies and target audiences.
Starlink’s mission is to provide high-speed internet access to everyone. While that includes businesses, Starlink’s primary focus is on residential customers. Specifically, individuals in rural locations where land-based infrastructure is lacking.
OneWeb’s objective of supplying high-speed internet to the entire planet is similar, but the UK-based company caters to businesses. By targeting commercial audiences, OneWeb can fulfill its goal of improving the Internet of Things (IoT). Consumers will still access OneWeb’s satellite broadband, but they’ll do so through a secondary business.
Technical Specifications
What would a Starlink vs. OneWeb comparison be without a deep dive into tech specs?
First, there’s each constellation’s distance from Earth. Although satellites from Starlink and OneWeb are both in low Earth orbit (LEO), they’re nowhere near each other. Starlink satellites operate just 550 km (340 mi) from our planet. OneWeb satellites, on the other hand, circle the Earth at a distance of 1,200 km (746 mi).
Compared to traditional satellites—which stay in geosynchronous equatorial orbit (GEO) at roughly 36,000 km (22,369 mi) away—Starlink and OneWeb offer a much faster connection.
That brings us to our second comparison: Latency. Regardless of orbit type or distance from Earth, broadband satellites work by sending and receiving data from Earth (to put it simply).
Because Starlink and OneWeb satellites are much closer than GEO options, overall latency—the time it takes for data to travel back and forth—is much lower. Higher latency can lead to slow page loads or out-of-sync audio and video.
Starlink advertises a maximum latency of 20 to 40 milliseconds, though field tests average around 40 to 50 milliseconds. That’s still slightly better than OneWeb’s promise of sub-100 millisecond latency. However, since legacy broadband satellites often have a latency of 600 milliseconds or more, either provider offers a substantial improvement over current technology.
Satellite Constellation Details
Some of the most significant Starlink vs. OneWeb differences lie in how the companies launch satellites. And taking a “by the numbers” look at each organization’s launches makes it easy to see how the two compare.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of some noteworthy details:
At first glance, Starlink’s feats seem much more impressive. But it’s vital to remember that these two companies have different timelines and objectives—and both are on track to change connectivity as we know it.
- Satellite launch specifics – Naturally, Starlink uses rockets from its parent company, SpaceX, to send its satellites into space. Interestingly enough, at the time of writing, so does OneWeb. Before the Russia-Ukraine war, OneWeb had an agreement with the Russian space agency Roscosmos. However, the company has since pivoted to launch its most recent satellites using SpaceX rockets.
- Current fleet size – By the most recent count (October 20, 2022), Starlink has already launched 3,505 satellites. As of January 10, 2023, OneWeb has 542 satellites in orbit.
- Proposed fleet size – Eventually, Starlink plans to grow its operations to more than 42,000 satellites. OneWeb’s short-term goal is to have 648 satellites circling the globe, as that’s the number required for global coverage. However, the UK-based company hopes to one day expand its fleet to 7,000 satellites.
Starlink and OneWeb: Better Together
Whatever comparisons and competition exist between Starlink and OneWeb will likely benefit the public. After all, space races tend to push technology forward for everyone.
At IP Access International, we recognize the value that each organization brings. That’s why we leverage both technologies to power FUSION—our 24/7 connectivity solution that makes high-speed internet possible from anywhere.
By combining satellite coverage from Starlink and OneWeb with on-the-ground cellular services, we’ve assembled a network of networks that can provide reliable internet to anyone, anywhere. So from remote business ventures to search and rescue operations, everyone has the opportunity to stay connected.
To learn more about our connectivity solutions, contact us today.
———————————————————————————————————-
Last but not least: What also caught my eye was that not only the UK government is one of the investors, but also Indian conglomerate Bharti Enterprises (the group’s flagship company is both India’s and the world’s second largest mobile network operator Bharti Airtel!) and
So definitely worth keeping an eye one OneWeb, if you ask me!
View attachment 38568
View attachment 38569
This certainly fits the bill of what was said by Brainchip working with a major communication company that wasn't anything to do with handsetsGiven the fact that Nandan Nayampally liked this
View attachment 38566
View attachment 38567
… I had a closer look at the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications company OneWeb last night, that is similar to Elon Musk’s Starlink (which has already deployed about 4000 small satellites as opposed to OneWeb‘s 634 so far).
Edge
computing
Space-based connectivity for edge computing
Storing, computing, and analysing data through space
Download solution details PDF
Storing, computing,
and analysing data through space
The low latency technology in low Earth orbit (LEO) network communications allows edge computing solutions to function with standard off-the-shelf computation software and latency-sensitive applications such as artificial or virtual reality, rather than highly bespoke toolkits for GEO connectivity.
This shift has made edge computing a more viable architecture in many instances compared to cloud computing, where smart technology is reliant on business-critical data to be forwarded and processed at speed.
Edge computing solutions that are located close to the sources of data acquisition and analysis can deliver information faster, so content delivery networks can become more highly responsive, applications more personalised, and customer experience improved, especially in remote and hard-to-reach locations.
Edge computing solutions can deliver information faster
Connectivity challenges
Edge computing systems need to be available no matter where the site is (cloud-like) and still meet stringent latency requirements given how mission-critical the data processing may be for operations.
On the ground, edge computing requires a power supply, predictive and automatic maintenance capabilities, and security around the site.
In the enterprise sector especially, organisations have to be able to scale and deploy edge computing solutions at speed if they are to benefit from the rapid growth in Internet of Things (IoT) applications and devices. According to International Data Corporation (IDC), enterprise IoT spending will reach $208 billion in 2022 in Europe and continue with double-digit growth through 2026.
IoT spending will reach $208 billion in 2022 in Europe
Connectivity solutions
As demand for cloud storage rises, and IoT applications expand that rely on AI and ML, computational architecture is shifting away from central servers. An enterprise may choose to distribute data across multiple processors, i.e. edges, rather than processing all of it in the cloud.
Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity can provide businesses with the reach and infrastructure needed to enable location-sensitive edge computing. This in turn helps reduce the cost of transporting data to a remote cloud, and ensuring data is accessed reliably
Computational architecture is shifting away from central servers
Enhanced opportunities
Powering a changing world
The low latency in LEO-network solutions allows us to deploy more commercial off-the-shelf software to the edge, in contrast to the highly bespoke tool kits that often characterise GEO connectivity.
Additionally, enterprises are able to reduce their reliance on the cloud and harness the benefits of edge computing using affordable hardware, and reliable connectivity that meets committed information rates and Service Level Agreement requirements.
Rapid edge protection
LEO is quick to deploy and easy to manage, with high bandwidth and low latency. The global reach of LEO can keep edge up and running for enterprises as a primary connectivity or backup solution. Its fast deployment means it is ideal for connecting branch offices or pop-up outlets on demand.
Remote operations
Remote sites such as gas stations, construction projects, or farming locations, can rely more on sensors for critical information gathering, including photographic records, measurements, and tracking. Data is transmitted to the nearby edge network, where it is processed and returned at speed for specific outputs. These may include controlled irrigation levels, or how much fertiliser to put down. Edge makes a big difference for companies that have a lot of data to process.
LEO is quick to deploy and easy to manage
Enabling
new applications
The digital citizen
The extension of digital literacy through edge technology, lowering barriers to entry for participation as a citizen in society.Global connectivity
Network solutions and plans bundled together with edge products to create new global platforms for cloud applications.Reduced disruption
Primary and backup support for business-critical solutions and services, providing access to and processing of raw data at the edge of industryNew business models
Through-space edge computing for new Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) forms of cloud computing.Manufacturing
The ability to store, manage, and analyse data close to source, reducing network time and costEnabling retail
Retail operations at remote sites, using satellite-enabled edge to power point-of-sale (POS) and in-store applications.Remote healthcare
Satellite-enabled edge for managing health industry data to improve public services in hard-to-reach placesMachine learning (ML)
ML benefits from “freshness” of real-time edge data; more frequent and at higher resolution intervals of observation. Additional context can lead to more accurate predictionsAutonomous vehicles
Driverless vehicles reliant on sensors to operate and ensure passenger safety, using high-speed data and split-second process of information.Microfinancing
Improved access to financial services in hard-to-reach places supports greater economic self-sufficiency
Global space-based connectivity
made easy
OneWeb LEO satellite connectivity gives companies across all industries the flexible, scalable, and reliable edge computing capabilities that they need to enhance existing communications solutions and power IoT applications.
Access OneWeb connectivity with a new class of User Terminal that brings function, design, and easy-to-use LEO technology together. Simple to order, deliver, install, and maintain, for primary, backup, and hybrid network solutions that meet the demands of today’s digitally powered business world.
New class of User Terminal that brings function, design, and easy-to-use LEO technology together.
Read more
Cloud gaming solution
LEO network solutions for connecting gamers everywhere&n...
Aquaculture solution
Space-based connectivity for Aquaculture
Agriculture solution
Space-based connectivity for agriculture.
——————————————————————————————————
A month ago, OneWeb confirmed the successful deployment of 16 satellites “including next-generation JoeySat”:
OneWeb confirms successful deployment of 16 satellites including next-generation JoeySat
- Launch 19 brings the total OneWeb constellation to 634 satellites, increasing redundancy and resiliency as global coverage nears activation
- Launch includes innovative JoeySat, a demonstration satellite previewing next-generation capabilities
London, 20 May 2023 – OneWeb, the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communications company, today confirmed the successful deployment of 16 satellites that will provide increased resilience and redundancy to the OneWeb constellation as the company progresses toward global services. Included in this key batch is JoeySat, a satellite that will test an innovative beam-hopping capability which will allow satellites to switch between different places on Earth and adjust the strength of the communications signals based on customer needs or demands.
Liftoff occurred on 20 May at 6:16 PT (local) from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. OneWeb’s satellites separated successfully from the vehicle and were dispensed in eight phases over a period of 1 hour and 26 minutes, and signal acquisition on all 16 satellites has been confirmed. The launch marked OneWeb’s fourth successful launch with SpaceX.
With 634 satellites now in-orbit, OneWeb is on track to deliver global coverage this year and is already in the process of scaling services for customers around the world. With the addition of the satellites deployed from this launch, OneWeb will increase the resiliency and redundancy in the constellation as it expands services to its growing base of enterprise and government customers.
The 16th satellite launched today is nicknamed JoeySat. Developed through the European Space Agency and UKSA Sunrise Partnership programme, JoeySat carries an innovative payload design which will demonstrate digital regenerative processing, electronically steered multi-beam arrays, and digital beamforming and beam-hopping technologies. These capabilities, planned for OneWeb’s Gen 2 constellation, will offer more flexibility and capacity to customers, optimizing resources to manage real-time surges in commercial demand or to enable rapid responses to emergencies such as natural disasters.
This new digital payload is developed in the UK by our Sunrise programme partner, Satixfy UK. JoeySat is also an integral component of the End-to-End system validations, testing innovative features including 5G Pilot Tests, which will be performed in collaboration with University of Surrey UK, Celestia UK and Satixfy UK. The aim is to create an interoperable network integrating space and ground assets by which OneWeb will be able to seamlessly manage backhaul to support 5G connectivity.
Also on board JoeySat is a Radiation Monitor, developed by partners Oledcomm and Advacam, which will measure and monitor the radiation environment in LEO, and provide critical information to OneWeb and the scientific community for future missions.
Neil Masterson, Chief Executive Officer of OneWeb, commented: “We are excited to see the successful completion of our 19th launch, which would not have been possible without our committed team and our enormously skilled launch partners. We have made tremendous progress in scaling our services, and today’s launch is a testament to our commitment to continue improving our service to our customers. Never ones to rest on our laurels, we also view this launch as proof positive of our drive to innovate, as we test new technologies that will usher in the future of our connectivity capabilities and services. We now look ahead to scaling our services as well as making important advancements in the future of connectivity.”
————————————————————————————————————
Could the name JoeySat, jointly developed by ESA and the UKSA Sunrise Partnership programme, be hinting at an Australian company being part of that project?! I had a look at ESA’s website that confirmed my suspicion that the satellite was indeed nick-named JoeySat after a baby kangaroo, although the explanation given here is that it is a “beam-hopping satellite”.
Beam-hopping JoeySat ready for launch
An advanced broadband satellite that will provide high-speed internet connectivity from low Earth orbit is on its way to the launch pad.www.esa.int
Beam-hopping JoeySat ready for launch
06/04/20231186 VIEWS35 LIKES
ESA / Applications / Connectivity and Secure Communications
An advanced broadband satellite that will provide high-speed internet connectivity from low Earth orbit is on its way to the launch pad.
The beam-hopping satellite – nicknamed JoeySat after a baby kangaroo – will demonstrate connectivity for people travelling by air, sea or on land, and preparing for fast 5G connectivity from space.
Its fully digital beam-hopping and beam-steering payload can switch the satellite capacity between different places on Earth up to 1000 times per second. The signal strength can also be adjusted to meet demand.
This will enable JoeySat to respond to real-time surges in commercial high-quality and connectivity demands – or during emergencies such as natural disasters.
Developed under the Sunrise Partnership Project between ESA and telecommunications operator OneWeb, JoeySat will demonstrate key technologies for OneWeb’s next generation constellation, as part of the ESA Sunrise project with support from the UK Space Agency.
Its advanced digital regenerative payload was built by SatixFy in the UK and the payload environmental tests were completed in the UK.
JoeySat left OneWeb's facilities in Florida on 4 April for a road trip across America to Vandenberg in California.
———————————————————————————————————
Somewhat surprisingly, OneWeb and Starlink (a division of SpaceX), while both LEO satellite communication companies, are not head-to-head competitors, but are even collaborating (see article above: “The launch marked OneWeb’s fourth successful launch with SpaceX.”)
Starlink vs. OneWeb: How Do They Compare? | IP Access International
Today, there are two competing pioneers in the satellite connectivity industry. In this guide, we’re comparing Starlink vs OneWeb to see how they stack up.
Starlink vs. OneWeb: How Do They Compare?
POSTED ON JANUARY 31, 2023 BY IP ACCESS
It’s an exciting time to be alive: A new space race is happening in the skies above us. But this time, the two “competitors” aren’t rival nations. Instead, it’s Starlink vs. OneWeb.
These private satellite broadband companies are working to make space-based connectivity a reality. The two organizations have already begun building networks of worldwide internet coverage by launching hundreds of satellites into low Earth orbit.
While OneWeb and Starlink are similar in many ways, they differ significantly. In fact, contrary to popular belief, these organizations don’t necessarily see themselves as head-to-head competitors.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at this semi-collaborative space race between two of the most innovative companies of our generation.
What is Starlink?
Starlink is a division of SpaceX, the space exploration company headed by billionaire Elon Musk. With a “mega constellation” of satellites that circle the Earth, Starlink aims to make from-anywhere connectivity possible for the average person.
Starlink began launching satellites in 2019, using SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets to hurtle the first segments of the Starlink constellation beyond the atmosphere. Today, the company offers internet access to more than 30 countries.
What is OneWeb?
Founded in 2012, OneWeb is a UK-based broadband satellite organization that’s also looking to expand connectivity across the globe. In the words of OneWeb CEO Neil Masterson, the company works to “provide fiber where there’s no fiber.”
OneWeb may look like the underdog next to Starlink, but the company is well beyond startup status. OneWeb has the support of various high-profile international investors and organizations, including:
With so many major players throwing their hats in the ring, it’s clear that OneWeb’s satellite operations have a promising future.
- The UK government
- The Indian telecom firm Bharti Global
- The Japanese investment group SoftBank Group
Comparing Starlink vs. OneWeb
So, Starlink and OneWeb both send satellites into orbit to provide internet to terrestrial users. But how and why do they do it? And what capabilities do their solutions have?
Goals and Purpose
Starlink and OneWeb may be “rivals” in a business sense, but they’re also peers. In some cases, they’ve even collaborated, with OneWeb using SpaceX rockets to launch at least 40 new satellites into orbit.
This partnership isn’t a conflict of interest because, in many ways, OneWeb and Starlink aren’t directcompetitors. Instead, the two organizations have different objectives, philosophies and target audiences.
Starlink’s mission is to provide high-speed internet access to everyone. While that includes businesses, Starlink’s primary focus is on residential customers. Specifically, individuals in rural locations where land-based infrastructure is lacking.
OneWeb’s objective of supplying high-speed internet to the entire planet is similar, but the UK-based company caters to businesses. By targeting commercial audiences, OneWeb can fulfill its goal of improving the Internet of Things (IoT). Consumers will still access OneWeb’s satellite broadband, but they’ll do so through a secondary business.
Technical Specifications
What would a Starlink vs. OneWeb comparison be without a deep dive into tech specs?
First, there’s each constellation’s distance from Earth. Although satellites from Starlink and OneWeb are both in low Earth orbit (LEO), they’re nowhere near each other. Starlink satellites operate just 550 km (340 mi) from our planet. OneWeb satellites, on the other hand, circle the Earth at a distance of 1,200 km (746 mi).
Compared to traditional satellites—which stay in geosynchronous equatorial orbit (GEO) at roughly 36,000 km (22,369 mi) away—Starlink and OneWeb offer a much faster connection.
That brings us to our second comparison: Latency. Regardless of orbit type or distance from Earth, broadband satellites work by sending and receiving data from Earth (to put it simply).
Because Starlink and OneWeb satellites are much closer than GEO options, overall latency—the time it takes for data to travel back and forth—is much lower. Higher latency can lead to slow page loads or out-of-sync audio and video.
Starlink advertises a maximum latency of 20 to 40 milliseconds, though field tests average around 40 to 50 milliseconds. That’s still slightly better than OneWeb’s promise of sub-100 millisecond latency. However, since legacy broadband satellites often have a latency of 600 milliseconds or more, either provider offers a substantial improvement over current technology.
Satellite Constellation Details
Some of the most significant Starlink vs. OneWeb differences lie in how the companies launch satellites. And taking a “by the numbers” look at each organization’s launches makes it easy to see how the two compare.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of some noteworthy details:
At first glance, Starlink’s feats seem much more impressive. But it’s vital to remember that these two companies have different timelines and objectives—and both are on track to change connectivity as we know it.
- Satellite launch specifics – Naturally, Starlink uses rockets from its parent company, SpaceX, to send its satellites into space. Interestingly enough, at the time of writing, so does OneWeb. Before the Russia-Ukraine war, OneWeb had an agreement with the Russian space agency Roscosmos. However, the company has since pivoted to launch its most recent satellites using SpaceX rockets.
- Current fleet size – By the most recent count (October 20, 2022), Starlink has already launched 3,505 satellites. As of January 10, 2023, OneWeb has 542 satellites in orbit.
- Proposed fleet size – Eventually, Starlink plans to grow its operations to more than 42,000 satellites. OneWeb’s short-term goal is to have 648 satellites circling the globe, as that’s the number required for global coverage. However, the UK-based company hopes to one day expand its fleet to 7,000 satellites.
Starlink and OneWeb: Better Together
Whatever comparisons and competition exist between Starlink and OneWeb will likely benefit the public. After all, space races tend to push technology forward for everyone.
At IP Access International, we recognize the value that each organization brings. That’s why we leverage both technologies to power FUSION—our 24/7 connectivity solution that makes high-speed internet possible from anywhere.
By combining satellite coverage from Starlink and OneWeb with on-the-ground cellular services, we’ve assembled a network of networks that can provide reliable internet to anyone, anywhere. So from remote business ventures to search and rescue operations, everyone has the opportunity to stay connected.
To learn more about our connectivity solutions, contact us today.
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Last but not least: What also caught my eye was that not only the UK government is one of the investors, but also Indian conglomerate Bharti Enterprises (the group’s flagship company is both India’s and the world’s second largest mobile network operator Bharti Airtel!) and
So definitely worth keeping an eye one OneWeb, if you ask me!
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The Future of AI Hardware is Here! 
What lies ahead for AI hardware? Let's explore some captivating trends:
Specialized AI chips: Brace yourselves for a wave of specialized chips designed exclusively for AI tasks! These futuristic chips, like ASICs and GPUs, will offer unparalleled computational power and energy efficiency, propelling AI capabilities to new heights. 
Quantum Computing: Hold onto your hats, folks! Quantum computers are on the horizon, promising mind-boggling speeds for solving complex problems. 
Quantum computing's potential impact on AI is immense, with the power to revolutionize our understanding and application of AI algorithms.
Edge Computing: Say hello to the AI of the future, right at your fingertips! 
Edge computing will witness a surge in AI-enabled devices like sensors and autonomous systems, benefiting from localized AI processing. Reduced latency and enhanced privacy will be the name of the game. 
Neuromorphic Computing: Inspired by the wonders of the human brain, neuromorphic computing aims to mimic neural networks' incredible parallelism and efficiency. These cutting-edge chips will expedite AI training and inference while conserving energy. It's like AI evolving to match our own cognitive abilities! 
Cloud Infrastructure Advancements: The AI cloud is getting bigger, better, and bolder! 
Cloud infrastructure will continue to evolve, with powerful GPUs, FPGAs, and other accelerators fueling the AI revolution. Get ready for efficient, scalable, and lightning-fast AI processing at your fingertips! 
It's a thrilling time to be part of this remarkable journey, where technology pushes boundaries and reshapes the possibilities of what AI can achieve.
My carrots are bigger than yours!
After reading that I feel even more confident in my investment in BRN.The Scientists Chasing Brain-like Neuromorphic Computing
7 Min Read
Ronni Shendar
June 13, 2023
The world’s fastest supercomputer requires 21 million watts of power. Our brains, in comparison, hum along on a mere 20 watts—roughly the energy needed for a light bulb.
For decades, engineers have been fascinated by how our brains compute. Sure, computers will outperform us in their capacity for mathematical calculations. But they struggle with tasks the human brain seems to handle effortlessly.
Why is that?
Computing like the brain
Justin Kinney, a neuroscientist, bioengineer, and technologist in Western Digital’s R&D, explained, “No one understands how the brain works, really.”
Kinney would know. He has spent much of his career trying to unravel the brain’s secrets. Engineer turned neuroscientist, Kinney hoped to join the neuroscientist community, learn what they already knew, and then apply it to computing.
“Much to my dismay, I found neuroscientists don’t actually understand the brain. No one does. And that’s because there’s little data,” he said.
The brain is regarded as one of the most complex known structures in the universe. It has billions of neurons, trillions of connections, and multiple levels ranging from cellular to molecular and synaptic. But the biggest challenge is that the brain is difficult to access.
“The brain is encased in a thick bone,” said Kinney, “and if you try to access, poke, or prod it, it will get really upset and hemorrhage, and delicate neurons will die.”
Nevertheless, Kinney said progress is being made on various fronts, particularly in the field of recording brain activity, which is good news for those trying to build brain-like computers.
“What we’ve learned is that there are similarities in computing principles when it comes to how neurons communicate and how we use electronics and circuits to do functional tasks and manipulate digital information,” said Kinney.
“Ultimately, we’d like to build next-generation computing hardware utilizing all the brain’s tricks for efficient computing, memory, and storage.”
Neuromorphic computing
Dr. Jason Eshraghian is an assistant professor at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) and leads the university’s Neuromorphic Computing Group.
Neuromorphic computing is an emerging field focusing on designing electronic circuits, algorithms, and systems inspired by the brain’s neural structure and its mechanisms for processing information.
Eshraghian emphasizes that his goal isn’t about replicating biological intelligence, though. “My goal isn’t to copy the brain,” he said. “My goal is to be useful. I’m trying to find what’s useful about the brain, and what we understand sufficiently to map into a circuit.”
One area that has been a particular focus for Eshraghian is the spiking mechanism of neurons. Unlike the constant activity of AI models like ChatGPT, the brain’s neurons are usually pretty quiet. They only fire when there is something worth firing about.
Eshraghian asked, “How many times have you asked ChatGPT to translate something into Farsi or Turkish? There’s a huge chunk of ChatGPT that I personally will never tap into, and so it’s kind of like saying, well, why do I want that? Why should that be active? Maybe instead, we can home in on the part of the circuit that matters and let that activate for a brief instant in time.”
On his path toward brain-like computing, Eshraghian embraces another trick of the brain: the dimension of time—or the temporal dimension. “There’s a lot of argument about how the brain takes analog information from the world around us, converts it to spikes, and passes it to the brain,” he said. “Temporal seems to be the dominant mechanism, meaning that information is stored in the timing of a single spike—whether something is quicker or slower.”
Eshraghian believes that taking advantage of the temporal dimension will have profound implications, especially for semiconductor chips. He argues that, eventually, we’ll exhaust the possibilities of 3D vertical scaling. “Then what else do you do?” he asked. “What I believe is that then you have to go to the fourth dimension. And that is time.”
Brain-like hardware
Building on spiking and temporal mechanisms, Eshraghian and his team have developed SpikeGPT, the largest spiking neural network for language generation. The neural network impressively consumes 22 times less energy than other large deep learning language models. But Eshraghian emphasizes that new circuits and hardware will be vital to unlocking its full potential.
“What defines the software of the brain?” he asked. “The answer is the physical substrate of the brain itself. The neural code is the neural hardware. And if we manage to mimic that concept and build computing hardware that perfectly describes the software processes, we’ll be able to run AI models with far less power and at far lower costs.”
Since the dawn of the information age, most computers have been built on the von Neumann architecture. In this model, memory and the CPU are separated, so data is constantly cycling between the processor and memory, expending energy and time.
But that’s not how the brain works. Brains are an amazingly efficient device because neurons have both the memory and the calculation in the same place.
Now a class of emerging memories—Resistive RAM, magnetic memories like MRAM, and even memories made of ceramic—are showing potential for this type of neuromorphic computing by having the basic multiplications and additions executed in the memory itself.
The idea isn’t farfetched. Recent collaborations, such as Western Digital’s collaboration with the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), have successfully demonstrated the potential of these technologies in curbing AI’s power problem.
Engineers hope that in the future, they could use the incredible density of memory technology to store 100 billion AI parameters in a single die, or a single SSD, and perform calculations in the memory itself. If successful, this model would catapult AI out of massive, energy-thirsty data centers into the palm of our hands.
Better than the brain
Neuromorphic computing is an ambitious goal. While the industry has more than 70 years of experience computing hard digital numbers through CPUs, memories are a different beast—messy, soft, analog, and noisy. But advancements in circuit design, algorithms, and architectures, like those brought about by Western Digital engineers and scientists, are showing progress that’s moving far beyond research alone.
For Dr. Eshraghian, establishing the Neuromorphic Computing Group at UCSC is indicative of the field’s shift from exploratory to practical pursuits, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
“Even though we say that brains are the golden standard and the perfect blueprint of intelligence, circuit designers aren’t necessarily subject to the same constraints of the brain,” said Eshraghian. “Processors can cycle at gigahertz clock rates, but our brain would melt if neurons were firing that fast. So, there is a lot of scope to just blow straight past what the brain can do.”
Kinney at Western Digital concurs. “We theorize that some of the details of brains may be artifacts of evolution and the fact that the brain has to build itself. Whereas the systems that we engineer, they don’t have that constraint yet,” he said.
Kinney hopes that by exploring computing functions through materials we can access—silicon, metal, even brain organoids in a dish—we may coincidentally uncover what happens in the brain.
“I believe the question of power efficiency will help us unlock the brain’s secrets, so let’s go chase that question,” he said.
“How does the brain do so much with so little?”
Found it, in the open neuromorphic community chat - run by that fellow Jason Eshgarian
Think Brainchip needs to improve the way they market to this community, they have been spamming them and they don’t like it…
