SoftBank Corp just announced a new collaboration with three major partners: Japan’s National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Kiyohara Optics, and ArkEdge Space. They’re aiming to launch a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite in 2026.
This project marks a big step toward high-speed optical wireless communications between space and Earth. The team wants to blend energy-efficient design and state-of-the-art communication capabilities, opening doors for fresh applications in satellite and high-altitude platforms.
Revolutionizing Space-Ground Communications
The core of this venture is to prove out optical wireless communications, a technology with the potential to shake up global data transmission. Compared to old-school radio, optical links promise faster speeds, less lag, and better resistance to interference.
That means more robust and secure connections—something the world’s bandwidth-hungry users are definitely craving.
Compact, Lightweight, and High-Speed Capability
The partners are building a communication device that’s both miniaturized and highly efficient. They’re targeting bidirectional communication at 10Gb/s speeds, planning to install these devices on both satellites and high-altitude platform stations (HAPS).
If they pull this off, it could make advanced space communications a lot more accessible and affordable.
Miniaturized Demonstration Satellite
The demonstration satellite in the works will boast advanced attitude control tech. This will help keep optical links stable and precise, even when sending data at high speeds between space and ground stations.
With improved orientation and pointing, the satellite should serve as a real-world proof-of-concept for future, larger deployments.
ArkEdge Space’s Critical Role
ArkEdge Space, known for its micro-satellite expertise, is taking on several key jobs:
- Developing the satellite platform
- Coordinating the launch
- Managing satellite operations once it’s up there
Their hands-on experience in aerospace should help the project tackle the many challenges of space missions.
Extending Connectivity Beyond Space
The team’s looking ahead to 2027, when they’ll mount optical wireless devices on HAPS. These platforms fly in the stratosphere, acting as quasi-satellite nodes that can link up with orbiting spacecraft.
By creating two-way communication between space and the stratosphere, they might be setting the stage for a layered, hybrid network. Sounds ambitious, but that’s what makes it interesting.
SoftBank’s Stratospheric Achievements
SoftBank’s already shown its commitment to stratospheric connectivity. They’ve tested a six-cell communications payload that delivers 5G coverage from high above Earth, helping bridge the gap in remote areas.
What they’ve learned from these tests will shape how they integrate optical communication devices into future HAPS missions.
Powering the Future of HAPS Missions
Energy efficiency is still a big hurdle for long-duration high-altitude missions. Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation recently picked a SoftBank proposal to develop next-generation batteries and solar cells.
These new technologies could extend HAPS operational time, cut down on downtime, and strengthen the resilience of future communication networks.
Implications for Global Communications Infrastructure
The 2026 satellite launch isn’t just another scientific experiment. It’s a calculated move with global consequences.
When you pair optical communications from LEO satellites with HAPS, you get some real possibilities:
- Ultra-fast internet in places that barely have a signal now
- More secure data channels
- Stronger networks, even when disasters hit
- Lower latency, which actually matters for things like remote surgery or self-driving vehicles
I’ve spent over thirty years working in communication tech, and honestly, this feels like a turning point. Packing compact, energy-efficient optical gear into satellites and high-altitude vehicles? That’s a solid move toward making fast, reliable connectivity available to more people, not just those in big cities.
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Here is the source article for this story: SoftBank partners for LEO satellite launch in 2026