186 – Integrated Space Systems, Multi-Orbit Terminals and the Future of SATCOM

In this episode, SES Space and Defense Vice President of Product Management Michael Geist discusses the evolving landscape of multi-orbit satellite capabilities. The integration of LEO, MEO and GEO orbits is poised to enhance connectivity and operational resilience. As governments and commercial entities increasingly embrace multi-orbit strategies, the industry builds a stronger foundation for a more adaptable and resilient future in satcom.

• An increase in demand for MEO and LEO services has not resulted in a drop in demand for GEO.

• CASR, or the Commercial Augmented Space Reserve, is a new way for commercial companies to support military satellites in orbit.

• Geist predicts that the largest disruptor in MILSATCOM will be digitization, which will act as a gateway technology to automating many satellite networking functions.

Chapters:

0:26 – Introducing Michael Geist, SES Space and Defense

0:58 – the unique abilities of LEO, MEO and GEO

3:44 – multi-orbit capabilities and resilience through diversity

5:49 – shifts in popularity between orbits

7:07 – military satellites in orbit via CASR (Commercial Augmented Space Reserve)

8:57 – hybrid SATCOM architecture

11:05 – challenges in making CASR successful

13:33 – space data relay services

15:03 – Prediction: what will be the biggest technology disruptors in MILSATCOM?

About Constellations: Constellations is a podcast and publication by Kratos covering the new generation of space network technologies. Our core interests are space networks, softwarization, terrestrial-space interoperability, the ground segment, security—and, of course, the growing space economy.

- The podcast publishes biweekly on Wednesday mornings.

- The podcast has featured leading CEOs, analysts, and government guests from Space Force, AFRL, the White House, and more.

- By size, our audience is space industry leaders, engineers, military/civil space, and academia.

- We publish article contributions from outside organizations and have ongoing content partnerships with DIFI, Space ISAC, Space Intel Report, and Analysys Mason.

- Sign up to receive our newsletter: www.kratosdefense.com/constellations/newsletters