Full Breakdown
Swissto12 to Build First Optical Relay Satellite for Space Compass
3/24/2026, 5:33:13 PM
Overview of the Contract
Swissto12, a Switzerland-based satellite manufacturer, has secured a contract with Space Compass, a joint venture between Japan’s Sky Perfect JSAT and NTT, to construct the first optical relay satellite using its HummingSat platform. This satellite, designated SC-A, is intended to enhance near-real-time Earth observation services and is scheduled for delivery during Japan's fiscal year 2028, which spans from April 2028 to March 2029.
Significance of the HummingSat Platform
The SC-A satellite represents a significant advancement in the small geostationary (GEO) satellite sector. Swissto12 CEO Emile de Rijk emphasized that the HummingSat is the first commercial GEO optical relay satellite in the Smallsat class, distinguishing it from larger, government-backed systems like Europe’s EDRS and Japan’s LUCAS. The HummingSat platform is designed to facilitate optical communication, with plans for a broader network of satellites to achieve global coverage.
Objectives of Space Compass
Space Compass aims to utilize the SC-A satellite as part of a larger optical data relay constellation, which will enable rapid data transmission to ground stations. The initiative is positioned to transform Earth observation from a passive tracking system into a real-time decision-making tool. Hiromi Komatsu, Co-CEO of Space Compass, stated that the satellite will play a crucial role in establishing a new space communications infrastructure, enhancing data backhauling capabilities between satellite networks.
Market Trends and Demand
The contract with Space Compass marks the sixth order for Swissto12's HummingSat platform, following previous agreements with SES, Viasat, and Astrum Mobile. De Rijk noted a growing demand for small GEO satellites in both sovereign and commercial markets, particularly as operators seek cost-effective alternatives amid a transition towards multi-orbit and low Earth orbit (LEO) systems. Competitors like U.S.-based Astranis and Finland’s ReOrbit are also experiencing increased orders for similarly sized satellites.
Official Statements & Responses
Swissto12 expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Space Compass, highlighting a shared vision for developing secure multi-orbit space infrastructure that supports critical missions such as Earth observation. The company is procuring optical communication terminals from an experienced supplier, while the assembly and testing of the payload will be conducted in-house.
Criticism & Opposition
While the initiative is largely viewed positively, some industry observers remain cautious about the feasibility and scalability of deploying a network of small GEO satellites. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for market saturation and the long-term sustainability of such projects.
Verbatim Quotes
- “By leveraging high speed, high-capacity optical data-relay architecture, we aim to enable faster and smarter decision making through real-time Earth Observation insights,” — Hiromi Komatsu, Co-CEO of Space Compass
- “We are delighted about this partnership with Space Compass and our shared vision to build multi-orbit, secure space infrastructure that supports some of the world’s most important space missions, such as earth observation,” — Emile de Rijk, CEO of Swissto12
This contract marks a pivotal step in the evolution of optical data relay capabilities, with implications for both commercial and governmental applications in space communications.
