Iridium Communications, which operates a global mobile voice and data network powered by 66 low-Earth orbiting (LEO) cross-linked satellites, is to use Radisys’ T-Series commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) platforms to upgrade its ground station infrastructure associated with its next generation global satellite constellation – Iridium NEXT.
Iridium NEXT, scheduled to begin launching in 2015, will deliver more bandwidth and higher data speeds to serve the rapidly-expanding demand for truly global mobile communications. In preparation for the launch of Iridium NEXT, the ground station upgrade is recently complete – across six global ground stations, and the gateway infrastructure.
The Radisys T-Series platform is based on an open standards-based ATCA platform architecture that utilizes merchant silicon and open source software. Radisys said it developed the T-Series platform to be in service for a minimum of seven years. The modular, high-availability platform can be used for a number of applications.
“We are delighted to be working with Iridium on this exciting global communications project,” said Keate Despain, vice president, business development and platform product line management, Radisys. “Our T-Series platforms possess all the necessary qualities to ensure that Iridium enjoys a cost effective, flexible and reliable deployment for Iridium NEXT. This will enable the next generation satellite constellation to stand up to the challenge of delivering effective mobile communications for the entire world with the latest market-leading technology.”
“Iridium NEXT will provide more services at faster speeds, substantially enhancing opportunities for our partners and customers,” said Scott Smith, Chief Operating Officer, Iridium. “Two things were important to Iridium in selecting the Radisys T-Series platform for the Iridium NEXT ground station infrastructure upgrade. First, we needed a platform that was supported by a multi-vendor open ecosystem to ensure its longevity. Being tied to one vendor’s proprietary solution simply wasn’t an option. Second, we needed a platform that provided improved price-performance to enable us to reach our technology and business objectives.”
