ESA selected Kepler Communications, a Canadian satellite telecommunications company, as the primary contractor for the project's first phase. This initial stage will establish a network of ten Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, creating the foundation for a space-based data relay system. HydRON's multi-phase development will eventually include satellites in higher orbits and an expanded optical ground segment. The completed system will support rapid data transfer from space to Earth, benefiting government and commercial users alike.

HydRON's laser technology promises to alleviate the limitations of traditional radio frequency systems, which face spectrum congestion and regulatory hurdles. By offering high-speed, high-capacity links, it will improve the efficiency of data transmission, particularly for Earth observation missions. Currently, these missions require downloading large datasets during satellite passes over ground stations, but HydRON will allow continuous data relay to Earth, bypassing these time constraints.

The system is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing terrestrial fiber optic networks, providing a fast and reliable global connection. This enhanced communication capability will support advanced 5G networks and enable emerging technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things (IoT). Furthermore, HydRON's technology could play a critical role in future space missions, including lunar exploration and beyond.

The contract signing featured key figures including Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director General; Laurent Jaffart, ESA Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications; ESA Astronaut Alexander Gerst; Harald Hauschildt, ESA Head of Optical and Quantum Programme - ScyLight; Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency; Tuan Huynh, CSA Director General for Space Science and Technology; and Mina Mitry, CEO of Kepler Communications.

"ESA is proud of the HydRON project, which exemplifies the power of European and Canadian collaboration in advancing space technology. With its laser satellite network for lightning-fast internet-like communications, HydRON has the potential to transform how we connect globally, bridging digital divides and enabling secure communications on Earth and beyond," said Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director General.

"The signing of the Element #1 contract marks a significant milestone in advancing optical and quantum communications in space," added Laurent Jaffart, ESA's Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications. "ESA is proud to be supporting future-facing and innovative risk sharing, driving space-based communications and potential future lunar and solar system missions."

Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency, emphasized the longstanding partnership between Canada and ESA: "For 45 years now, Canada's collaboration with ESA has resulted in opportunities to participate in European space program projects that would otherwise be out of reach. For Canadian companies, having this unique access to the European space market means commercialization prospects and concrete sales, job creation and knowledge-sharing, and international partnerships opportunities."

Mina Mitry, CEO of Kepler Communications, expressed the company's commitment to leading the HydRON Element #1 initiative. "Kepler is proud to lead the HydRON Element#1 contract, collaborating with TESAT and Airbus to deliver a state-of-the-art optical constellation that will enable the development of terabit-per-second data relay in space. This program is aligned with Kepler's core mission to extend Internet-like connectivity speed to space and will improve secure access to space-generated data for all ESA member states," he said.

HydRON is part of ESA's Optical and Quantum Communications - ScyLight initiative under the Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programme.

Related Links
Connectivity and Secure Communications at ESA
Space Technology News - Applications and Research