Driving the Future of Multi-Orbit Connectivity

Q&A with Don Claussen, CEO of ST Engineering iDirect

Q: How do you see the industry changing to adopt a multi-orbit approach?

A: The multi-orbit approach is still emerging in the industry. For the past 25-30 years, GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit) has been the backbone for traditional communications, while LEO (Low Earth Orbit) carved out a role in specialized applications. Connecting these orbits into a cohesive system is something we’re still in the early stages of achieving as an industry.

There’s no doubt that new entrants have shaken up – even woken up – the satcom industry, but much of the current discussion around multi-orbit remains overly simplistic. It tends to focus narrowly on LEO, overlooking other non-Geostationary orbits (NGSOs), and often frames LEO versus GEO in terms of latency alone, which paints only part of the picture.

The reality is that a hybrid, multi-orbit solution often delivers the best results, especially for enterprise-grade requirements. Neither orbit provides a complete solution on its own, but when working together, they unlock powerful capabilities. Add that to multi-access networks that integrate terrestrial systems and the value proposition becomes even stronger.

Even customers with tight budgets can benefit from multi-orbit configurations, and we see strong demand across markets for new network setups tailored to their needs. However, choosing the right technology partner is critical. Customers must consider the long-term vision and roadmap of the companies they are partnering with. At ST Engineering iDirect, we’ve fully embraced the multi-orbit mindset, and it’s central to how we approach the future of connectivity.

By working within an open, collaborative ecosystem, we avoid the constraints of a vertically integrated model, where one company controls everything. Instead, we’ve focused on partnerships that foster innovation and keep doors open to emerging technologies, like standards-based solutions such as 5G NTN for network roaming. This approach also enables more tailored problem-solving, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all solution.

Right now, we offer customers a number of options as we move toward seamless multi-orbit roaming. For instance, we’re working with partners on solutions that intelligently route traffic based on application needs. Best-path routing is already showing its value, enabling new use cases and creating more flexibility for users. Some customers stick primarily to GEO for most of their capacity, utilizing proven latency-mitigation methods, while reserving LEO for applications that truly demand low latency. With seamless roaming just a few years away, we’re helping customers adopt solutions like best-path routing to optimize today while preparing for tomorrow.

Another exciting development is our multi-orbit satellite switching algorithm. It’s currently helping extend coverage in the Arctic by enabling modems to switch seamlessly between GEO and HEO (Highly Elliptical Orbit). This kind of flexibility significantly enhances service areas and ensures reliability, even in the most remote regions.

The pace of progress within the multi-orbit and multi-access ecosystem is remarkable, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of that innovation. The next big frontier is inter-provider and cross-network roaming, bridging satellite and terrestrial networks. Within a few years, users will experience seamless connectivity no matter where they are or which network they’re on, and we’re excited to lead the charge in making that vision a reality.

Q: Depending on the application, is one multi-orbit solution to select the best route for the traffic?

A: Exactly. Best-path routing technology is designed to do exactly that. It evaluates real-time conditions and routes traffic intelligently across GEO, LEO, MEO, and even cellular networks. This means customers don’t have to worry about the technical details. Whether it’s a cargo ship out at sea over GEO or close to shore switching to LTE/5G connectivity or an IoT device best served by NGSO, we ensure the optimal connection automatically.

Q: From the customer's point of view, they don’t need to know which orbit you’re using?

A: That’s absolutely right. Think about how we use smartphones. We don’t stop to wonder if we’re connected via LTE, 5G, or Wi-Fi. We just want our apps to work. The same principle applies here. End-users shouldn’t have to think about the underlying technology. Our job is to make the experience so seamless that their only focus is on enjoying uninterrupted service.

I’ll give you an example. I was recently on a boat that used both GEO and LEO. The customers didn’t care about the orbits. They only cared about being able to seamlessly upload photos, share videos, and stream music. That’s the user experience we aim to deliver.

Q: As part of the seamless approach, you have your Intuition platform?

A: Intuition is our next-gen ground system, and it represents a big step forward in simplifying satellite network deployment and management. One of its key advantages is the use of virtualized, cloud-native infrastructure, which moves away from traditional proprietary hardware. This approach allows for faster deployments, cost savings, and the ability to scale resources in real time. It’s all about empowering operators to adapt quickly and efficiently.

Our vision is for the system to run on AI-driven automation and standards-based orchestration, ensuring seamless interoperability and enhanced operational efficiency. This means we’re not just reducing reliance on manual processes; we’re enabling networks to adjust dynamically, allocate capacity efficiently, and maintain reliability even under demanding conditions. By supporting seamless integration between satellite and terrestrial networks Intuition takes us closer to a truly unified ecosystem.

Q: Following on from the standards approach, 3GPP Release 17 added support for NTN’s (Non-terrestrial Networks) for IoT/Direct-to-device applications. Is this something you’re working on?

A: We’re heavily involved in advancing 3GPP standards because they’re pivotal to enabling seamless interoperability between satellite and terrestrial networks. Meeting these specifications doesn’t just address baseline connectivity; it opens the door to enhanced enterprise-grade solutions that reflect the needs of modern users. We're particularly focused on advancements like Release 18, which will expand the scope of connectivity to support a broader array of applications.

Think about a scenario where a service seamlessly integrates GEO from one provider, LEO from another, and terrestrial cellular networks. Making that possible requires a unified framework for authentication, security, and operations. These standardized guidelines ensure consistent and reliable performance across multiple orbits and network types, allowing operators to deliver the kind of seamless, resilient, and scalable connectivity enterprises demand.

It’s about building networks that can adapt and operate as cohesive ecosystems, regardless of the technology mix behind them.

Q: It just goes back to the point that people just want connectivity?

A: Exactly. People aren’t interested in network architecture; they care about results. Whether someone is miles offshore on a fishing vessel or managing sensors on a remote mining site, their concern is uptime and reliability.

Here’s another example. We had an aviation customer who used a mix of GEO for core connectivity and LEO for in-flight streaming services. Their passengers didn’t care how it worked, only that it worked without a hiccup. That’s the expectation now—with an open, multi-layered satcom ecosystem, we can meet and exceed those expectations.

Q: From the vessel operator’s point of view, they now have extra capabilities to keep their customers connected?

A:  Multi-orbit systems give operators an incredible degree of reliability and flexibility. With our satellite tracking algorithms, for instance, vessels in the arctic can dynamically shift between GEO and HEO configurations as conditions change, ensuring uninterrupted service even during extreme weather or challenging geography.

That’s a competitive edge for operators who rely on never breaking their connectivity promise to customers.

Q: Another change in the industry is the move toward software-defined satellites along with the ground segment?

A. The shift to software-defined systems is a major development. The days of reliance on fixed, hardware-intensive solutions that can’t adapt quickly are behind us. Today, we’re introducing software-defined technologies that allow us to roll out updates, enhance security, and add features without major hardware overhauls – this accelerates our collective ability to compete and meet the growing demands.

At ST Engineering iDirect, we’re applying lessons from the telecom industry, where efficient infrastructure sharing and flexible billing models have long been the norm. Additionally, our advanced ground systems now incorporate sophisticated orchestration capabilities, enabling dynamic resource orchestration in conjunction with satellites. This ensures that the allocation and optimization of network resources can adjust in real time, boosting overall performance, operational efficiency, and user experience. By adopting these dynamic, software-driven capabilities, we’re helping to position satellite connectivity as a seamless extension of the terrestrial network, meeting both current and future connectivity needs.

Q: As part of the standards approach, there is DIFI (Digital Intermediate Frequency Interoperability)?

A: Yes, and it’s a positive step forward for the industry. The DIFI Consortium is driving digital interoperability within the ground segment developing and promoting an open, interoperable Digital IF/RF standard, and we’re playing an active role. By replacing hardware-heavy gateways with virtualized, software-defined solutions, DIFI enables operators to scale more efficiently, reduce costs, and deploy networks with more flexibility.

For instance, operators can use commercial off-the-shelf servers to modulate and demodulate satellite signals while connecting directly to RF equipment via DIFI interfaces. This opens the door to public or private cloud deployments, offering the efficiency of cloud-scale operations while maintaining control over local data.

Q: Finally, there is a big discussion on the use of AI within the satellite communications industry. How do you see this being used?

A. AI isn’t optional anymore; it’s a must-have for handling the growing challenges of multi-orbit satellite networks and integrated terrestrial systems.

Take real-time traffic management as an example. AI systems can analyze what’s happening and make smart decisions about how to route traffic. Practical applications like prioritizing a fast gaming session on a flight over a less critical file transfer—or the other way around when needed—are already happening. It’s about making those decisions on the fly, based on the actual situation.

AI also helps with things like maintenance. It can recognize patterns and spot potential problems before they become a big deal. That means less downtime and smoother performance overall.

At ST Engineering iDirect, we’ve already demonstrated AI’s potential through proof-of-concept projects that highlight its ability to optimize operations and improve service delivery. To further drive innovation, we’ve launched an Automation Advisory Council, bringing together experts to shape the future of AI-driven solutions in satellite communications.

We’re only scratching the surface with AI; it will be central to keeping everything running reliably and meeting the demand for seamless, uninterrupted connectivity.