FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Global Satellite Engineering (GSE), Sidus Space (NASDAQ: SIDU), and Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: IRDM) have achieved a significant milestone in satellite communications with the successful integration of the Iridium® 9602 modem into the LizzieSat™ constellation. This accomplishment, validated by U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval on January 28, 2025, enables the first commercial small satellite platform authorized for space-to-space data relay.
The collaboration showcases how technical precision and coordinated partnerships can accelerate new capabilities in orbit. By combining GSE’s engineering and integration expertise with Iridium’s reliable global network and Sidus Space’s mission-driven satellite design, the collaboration delivered a solution that reduces reliance on ground stations and establishes a new benchmark for operational agility in space.
Under GSE’s engineering leadership, the Iridium 9602 modem was adapted to meet Sidus Space’s stringent design and environmental requirements for the LizzieSat™ platform. The integration effort led by GSE included PCB design, antenna optimization, and environmental testing to ensure the system’s resilience in orbit.
Key engineering milestones included:
The Iridium 9602 proved ideal for small-satellite applications requiring compact size, low power consumption, and environmental durability. The result is a communications architecture that delivers ultra-low latency, redundant connectivity, and a reliable pathway for direct satellite-to-user data transmission under the FCC’s newly approved framework.
Carol Craig, CEO of Sidus Space, stated:
“This FCC authority to deploy our satellite with a space-to-space data relay solution ensures compliance with U.S. regulatory requirements and strengthens Sidus Space’s ability to deliver data and analytics for mission-critical services.”
Jim Larson, SVP of AI Advancement Strategies at Sidus Space, highlighted the innovation edge:
“We believe LizzieSat™ is the only known commercial small satellite platform to harness the powerful combination of rapid direct-to-user data transfer capability and on-orbit Artificial Intelligence.”
Jeff Palmer, Founder and Managing Director of GSE, summarized the partnership:
“We love when our partners team up to deliver new business opportunities. It’s one of the coolest things about partnering with GSE, actually. Because we work with the entire satellite industry, we serve as an ideal bridge for business growth, product collaborations, and new ventures.”
With FCC approval secured, Sidus Space plans to standardize the Iridium 9602 integration across its FeatherEdge onboard computing platform, in continued collaboration with GSE and Iridium. This expansion will enable future LizzieSat™ missions to operate as a cross-linked satellite network, optimizing data routing and extending direct-to-device communications
worldwide.
The technical and regulatory success of this project establishes a scalable model for other satellite operators seeking to integrate commercial communications modules into orbital systems. The same approach can accelerate deployment timelines, enhance redundancy, and strengthen mission reliability across multiple markets, including:
GSE intends to continue working with its existing partners to identify new opportunities to collaborate and deliver innovative solutions to a market that is gearing up to serve the advanced off-grid data needs of AI and connected worksites. New partnerships with service providers, OEMs, and network providers are on the horizon as well, furthering GSE’s commitment to leading the industry’s innovation efforts.
Global Satellite Engineering provides advanced engineering solutions for satellite communications, specializing in hardware integration and design, software and firmware, and airtime management. GSE partners with leading organizations to deliver reliable, resilient, and innovative satellite-enabled connectivity solutions worldwide. Learn more at www.gsat.us [2]
Sidus Space (NASDAQ: SIDU) is a Space-as-a-Service company focused on bringing space down to Earth. Through its LizzieSat™ constellation and FeatherEdge platform, Sidus delivers data and analytics for government, commercial, and research customers worldwide. Learn more at www.sidusspace.com [3]
Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: IRDM) operates the world’s only truly global satellite communications network, enabling connectivity for industries, governments, and individuals. Iridium’s portfolio supports critical communications across aviation, maritime, land, and space applications. Learn more at www.iridium.com [4]
Media Contact:
David Chalona
Global Satellite Engineering
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