Scottish University Secures Funding for Innovative Satellite Terminal to Enhance Global Connectivity

Researchers from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, have been awarded a grant by the UK Space Agency to develop a universal terminal for connecting to satellites at various orbits. The consortium, which includes the university, received £6 million through the Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (C-LEO) program.

Under the guidance of Cardiff-based technology firm Excelerate Technology, the team will create the Mobility and Autonomy Market User Terminal (MAMUT), designed to communicate with satellites across multiple orbits to ensure high-speed connectivity.

The MAMUT system is tailored to meet user requirements. With a dedicated application, users will have the ability to select satellite communication providers operating in low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and geostationary orbits, which is expected to lower costs and enhance global flexibility. The terminal aims to improve internet access for remote areas both on land and at sea, including mountainous regions and oil rigs.

George Goussis, a professor in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, stated that the expansion of satellite communication presents new opportunities for sectors that previously lacked reliable internet access. This includes drone management, emergency response, and governmental operations.

Dr. Samuel Rothenberg, a researcher in the same school, pointed out that nearly all terminals intended for LEO currently available or in development focus heavily on bandwidth performance metrics. Such equipment tends to be overly large, expensive, and inefficient in terms of energy consumption for many potential markets and satellite networks, according to Rothenberg. He added that these factors hinder the industry’s progress.

The MAMUT project will facilitate the creation of compact, lightweight, and energy-efficient terminals suited for stationary, mobile, and autonomous applications. Rothenberg explained that the development will offer modularity and cost flexibility to meet customer needs.

In addition to Heriot-Watt University, the consortium includes Satellite and Space Consulting, Satraka, and Jet Connectivity. The overall investment in MAMUT will total £16 million. The team will focus on developing a prototype terminal while collaborating with industry leaders.