Space42 Collaborates With Gatehouse Satcom To Enhance Direct-to-Device Satellite Messaging

Space42 has announced a successful partnership between its subsidiary Thuraya and Gatehouse Satcom, a Danish software company. This collaboration aims to enhance direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity using satellite technology. The project showcased NB-IoT applications over Space42’s L band geostationary satellites, employing 3GPP-compliant release 17 technology. This ensures alignment with global standards and prepares for future scalability.

The initiative is set to pave the way for the launch of Thuraya Direct, a new messaging and IoT service expected to be commercially available in Q4 2025. This effort highlights Space42’s strategy of aligning with open-standard technologies early on, scaling them through targeted programs, and delivering results via trusted partnerships. It targets sectors like energy, agriculture, and transportation where reliable connectivity is crucial.

Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services at Space42, stated, "This collaboration reflects our strategy in action. It is about extending the boundaries of mobile connectivity by enabling standard smartphones and IoT devices to connect via satellite in areas where terrestrial networks fall short." He emphasized their engagement with telecom providers to address market needs while preparing for enhanced global commercialisation of D2D through future constellations.

Jesper Noer, VP Commercial at Gatehouse Satcom, expressed pride in supporting Space42's D2D transition from concept to reality. "Running 5G NB-IoT over GEO is no small feat," he said. "Our software is built for this – adaptable across constellations, compliant with global standards, and ready to support the next wave of NTN innovation."

For over two decades, Thuraya has been a leader in satellite mobility, providing robust connectivity in challenging environments. As Space42’s mobile satellite division, it continues to redefine satellite-enabled services' potential. Gatehouse Satcom contributed vital 3GPP NTN expertise and software capabilities that enabled successful validation of messaging protocols over geostationary satellite links.

This collaboration successfully demonstrated that 3GPP-compliant devices like smartphones and IoT modules can seamlessly connect to Space42’s satellite network. This validation confirms that Thuraya Direct can be delivered through globally standardised infrastructure. It will be accessible to any telecom or OEM partner capable of interoperating with the system.

Commercial Readiness and Future Plans

With commercial readiness aimed for the end of this year, Space42 is actively engaging with mobile operators and industry players to bring this service to market. The collaboration underscores the potential for expanding connectivity options beyond terrestrial networks by leveraging satellite technology.

The project exemplifies how partnerships can drive innovation in critical sectors by providing reliable wide-area connectivity solutions where traditional infrastructure may not suffice. By working closely with telecom providers and industry partners, Space42 aims to scale this new frontier of connectivity.

With inputs from WAM