Hubble Network to Launch Global Bluetooth Layer via Satellite Upgrade

Hubble Network Enhances Satellite-Based Bluetooth Connectivity

A significant advancement is underway for Hubble Network, the provider of satellite-powered Bluetooth networks.

New Phased-Array Receiver to Expand Global Coverage

Hubble Network, a Seattle-based company, is developing a more robust Bluetooth network for enterprise applications, mirroring the functionality of Apple’s Find My service for consumers. Central to this expansion is a newly developed, high-performance phased-array receiver.

According to Hubble CEO Alex Haro, this receiver will establish a comprehensive Bluetooth layer encircling the Earth.

MuSat XL Satellites to Host Advanced Payload

This cutting-edge technology will be deployed on two large MuSat XL satellites, created by Muon Space, a four-year-old company. These satellites are scheduled for launch in 2027.

The initial pair of MuSat XL spacecraft are projected to offer a global revisit time of 12 hours. They will also be capable of detecting Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals with 30 times greater efficiency than current systems, potentially extending the operational lifespan of tracking tags and sensors.

Enterprise Applications Across Multiple Sectors

These satellites will serve as the foundation for Hubble’s BLE Finding Network, catering to businesses in logistics, infrastructure, and defense industries.

Pioneering Satellite Bluetooth Connectivity

In 2024, Hubble achieved a milestone by becoming the first company to successfully establish a Bluetooth connection directly with a satellite.

The company’s approach is streamlined: customers can integrate their existing device chipsets with a specific firmware to connect to the Hubble network, eliminating the need for specialized hardware.

Benefits of a Space-Based Network

Hubble emphasizes the substantial advantages of its space-based network, including global visibility, even in remote locations, and a user-friendly platform for asset tracking without requiring additional infrastructure development.

Expansion Plans and Satellite Constellation Growth

Currently, Hubble operates seven spacecraft in orbit, with an ambitious goal of deploying 60 satellites by 2028.

The long-term strategy involves upgrading the entire constellation to utilize the larger platform buses, capitalizing on their enhanced power and performance capabilities, as stated by Haro.

Muon Space’s Scalable Manufacturing Capabilities

Haro highlighted Muon’s ability to rapidly scale manufacturing as a key factor in their partnership, enabling Hubble to meet its aggressive deployment schedule. Muon recently secured $146 million in funding to support this expansion.

Gregory Smirin, president of Muon Space, confirmed that their San Jose facility is being expanded to facilitate the production of over 500 spacecraft annually by 2027.

MuSat XL Platform and Department of Defense Contracts

Hubble is the inaugural customer for Muon’s 500 kilogram-class MuSat XL satellite platform.

This platform offers substantial power – multi-kilowatt – to payloads, optical crosslinks, high-volume data downlink, and facilitates “near real-time” communications for critical missions.

The partnership also signifies Muon’s increased focus on securing more substantial contracts with the Department of Defense.

SDA Tranche Missions Compatibility

Smirin noted that the XL platform is ideally suited for the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Tranche missions, which aim to establish a missile defense constellation in low Earth orbit.

“XL reflects both the evolution of our technical stack and our growing role in delivering the kind of multi-mission spacecraft that programs like SDA increasingly rely on.”

Space-as-a-Service Business Model

Muon Space operates on a “space-as-a-service” model, providing comprehensive satellite design, construction, and operation services.

Their vertically integrated hardware and software stack, known as Halo, aims to simplify space access for companies with innovative payloads but lacking the resources to develop the underlying satellite infrastructure.

This allows Hubble to concentrate on refining the BLE network while Muon manages the satellite platforms and mission operations.