The draft decision follows a multi-year initiative by the LoRa Alliance to formalise this LPD-S category. Basically, it formally defines the conditions that low power devices communicating with satellites will need to fulfil. This is for connecting directly to satellites without the need for ground infrastructure.
Specifically, it will enable non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication using low-power devices in the 862–870MHz SRD band. This can be an enabler for ultra-low-power, battery-operated IoT sensors.
Lacuna Space
Among those welcoming the decision was Lacuna Space, the Harwell-based provider of satellite connectivity for the IoT
Europe-wide regulatory approval opens the door, it said, for the company to scale its commercial service across the continent. It describes the ruling as a new regulatory milestone.
“We’re proud to have played a leading role in shaping this new LPD-S category,” said the CEO and co-founder of Lacuna Space, Rob Spurrett, right.
“After years of flight-testing and engagement with regulators, we’re excited to say: it is full-speed ahead with commercial scale deployments in Europe.”
The company will be using its KonflexHub platform with starter kits and node subscriptions. Its satellites feature the proprietary LoneWhisper payload. This is optimised to receive small, infrequent messages from low-power devices and transmit them directly to orbit. The aim is to enable true global coverage without the need for ground-based communication infrastructure.
“This recognition gives clarity to innovators, customers, and regulators alike,” added Spurrett. “It means customers can now deploy with confidence, knowing the regulatory foundation is in place for long-term, large-scale growth.”
You can read about the ECC’s Working Group Frequency Management meeting on the EEC website. Its next meeting is in October, in Hungary.
Image: Lacuna Space – the ECC Decision (25)02 cover page authorising low-power satellite communications in the 862–870 MHz frequency band under the new LPD-S category. Along with the Lacuna Space Logo
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