OQ Technology is a NewSpace startup that aims to provide global 5G IoT connectivity using LEO satellites
OQ Technology, a Luxembourg-based NewSpace startup, is building a global 5G low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation dedicated for Internet-of-Things (IoT) communication. The company’s mission is to provide connectivity anywhere, especially in remote and rural areas where terrestrial networks are not available or reliable.
The company was founded in 2016 by Omar Qaise, a former engineer and business developer at various satellite and telecommunication organizations, such as the European Space Agency (ESA), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), O3b, OHB SYSTEMS, EUMETSAT, and SES Satellites. Qaise has extensive experience and knowledge of competing Satcom systems and 5G, as well as being the chief architect of the concept.
OQ Technology’s constellation will consist of nanosatellites that will operate in the S-band and use the 5G standard to communicate with IoT devices on the ground. The company claims that its solution will offer lower latency, higher data rates, and better security than existing IoT satellite services.
OQ Technology is preparing to launch its first satellite, MACSAT, in late September
One of the highlights of OQ Technology’s journey so far is the upcoming launch of its first satellite, MACSAT, which is scheduled for late September 2023. MACSAT is a 6U CubeSat that will demonstrate the feasibility of using 5G waveforms and protocols in space. The satellite will also test the performance of the S-band antenna and payload, as well as the ground segment and user terminals.
MACSAT is part of the ESA Pioneer program, which supports innovative and low-cost missions by NewSpace companies. The satellite was developed in collaboration with NanoAvionics, a Lithuanian nanosatellite manufacturer and mission integrator. The launch will be provided by SpaceX as part of a rideshare contract.
Qaise said that MACSAT is a significant milestone for OQ Technology, as it will validate the core technology and business case of the company. He also said that MACSAT will be followed by more satellites in 2023 and 2024, which will form the initial operational capability of the constellation.
OQ Technology has a strategic vision and growth strategy for the next few years
In an exclusive interview with SpaceWatch.Global from World Satellite Business Week (WSBW) 2023 in Paris, Qaise shared his strategic vision and growth strategy for OQ Technology for the next few years. He said that the company’s goal is to become a global leader in 5G IoT satellite services, and to expand its market presence and customer base in various sectors, such as agriculture, energy, transportation, logistics, smart cities, and defense.
He also revealed that OQ Technology has secured several partnerships and contracts with key players in the industry, such as Aramco, the Saudi Arabian oil giant, which will use OQ Technology’s services for its remote oil fields. He also mentioned that OQ Technology is working with several mobile network operators (MNOs) and regulators to integrate its satellite network with terrestrial 5G networks.
Qaise also emphasized the importance of innovation and differentiation in the NewSpace sector, which is becoming increasingly crowded and competitive. He said that OQ Technology has a unique value proposition that combines 5G technology, S-band spectrum, nanosatellite platforms, and flexible business models. He also said that OQ Technology is constantly exploring new opportunities and applications for its services, such as edge computing, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and quantum communication.
OQ Technology is optimistic about the future of the NewSpace industry
Throughout the interview, Qaise expressed his optimism and enthusiasm for the future of the NewSpace industry. He said that he believes that NewSpace is a disruptive force that will transform the space sector and create new markets and opportunities. He also said that he is confident that OQ Technology will play a significant role in this transformation and contribute to the global development of 5G IoT connectivity.
He also praised WSBW 2023 as a valuable platform for networking and learning from other players in the industry. He said that he enjoyed meeting with potential investors, customers, partners, and suppliers at the event. He also said that he appreciated the insights and feedback from other speakers and panelists at the Summit for Satellite Financing.
The full exclusive interview with Omar Qaise can be listened to here. More insights from WSBW 2023 can be found here.