Viasat launches HaloNet to unify space and terrestrial connectivity
Viasat has introduced its HaloNet portfolio, a modular suite of capabilities featuring a next-generation connectivity architecture that seamlessly integrates space and terrestrial networks into a single, cohesive service. Developed by global teams within Viasat Government and the companys Defence and Advanced Technologies segment, HaloNet is aimed at transforming near-Earth communications with flexible, multi-orbit network and data services tailored to meet specific mission needs.
The system addresses the growing demands of government and commercial low Earth orbit (LEO) operators, who require agile, secure and cost-effective infrastructure to transport mission-critical data. As LEO operations expand, operators face the challenge of moving large volumes of information back to Earth for analysis and distribution while maintaining real-time command and control, managing latency, and ensuring continuous connectivity.
HaloNet is capable of providing simultaneous communications to thousands of space vehicles across all orbital inclinations, including polar and retrograde paths, and can operate at any latitude. The service supports missions in LEO up to 1,100 km as well as medium Earth orbit, offering multi-band GEO-relay and Direct-to-Earth (DTE) satellite communications for a wide array of applications.
Craig Miller, President of Viasat Government, said: 'With todays space environment becoming increasingly complex, customers need agile, reliable and secure communications infrastructure that can support real-time command and control and data transport needs. Our HaloNet portfolio enables us to continue meeting these evolving near-earth mission communications needs, as well as government customers capability requirements for critical scientific and defense missions.'
By combining Viasats advanced space and ground systems, HaloNet offers an integrated approach to command, control and data dissemination. Its core services include Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) Data Relay Service, Launch Telemetry DRS, High-Capacity DRS, Direct-to-Earth Service, and Mobile Command & Control, creating a comprehensive and scalable communications solution for the next era of space operations.
John Reeves, Vice President of Space and Mission Systems, Viasat Government, added: 'HaloNet is helping transform near-Earth communications, combining our advanced space, ground, and networking infrastructure into a solutions portfolio addressing customer needs. Through HaloNet services, Viasat is providing a one-stop-shop for multi-band, multi-path, secure connectivity and data transport solutions that will enable both government and commercial customers missions.'
Based on mission parameters, HaloNet will use GEO relay satellites to dynamically deliver data. The relay transport paths will be L-band, Ka-band or optical links with expected data rates ranging from 10s of Kbps to more than 10 Gbps for secure data dissemination on demand or pre-scheduled. Viasats global DTE ground antennas provide increased optionality and further resilience. HaloNets portfolio will provide a comprehensive solution for government and commercial users to access diverse data transport options that can be leveraged for different mission requirements.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Broadcast Pro
a day ago
- Broadcast Pro
Viasat launches HaloNet to unify space and terrestrial connectivity
HaloNet enables simultaneous links with thousands of space vehicles across all orbital inclinations, including polar and retrograde, supporting missions up to 1,100 km in LEO and in MEO. Viasat has introduced its HaloNet portfolio, a modular suite of capabilities featuring a next-generation connectivity architecture that seamlessly integrates space and terrestrial networks into a single, cohesive service. Developed by global teams within Viasat Government and the companys Defence and Advanced Technologies segment, HaloNet is aimed at transforming near-Earth communications with flexible, multi-orbit network and data services tailored to meet specific mission needs. The system addresses the growing demands of government and commercial low Earth orbit (LEO) operators, who require agile, secure and cost-effective infrastructure to transport mission-critical data. As LEO operations expand, operators face the challenge of moving large volumes of information back to Earth for analysis and distribution while maintaining real-time command and control, managing latency, and ensuring continuous connectivity. HaloNet is capable of providing simultaneous communications to thousands of space vehicles across all orbital inclinations, including polar and retrograde paths, and can operate at any latitude. The service supports missions in LEO up to 1,100 km as well as medium Earth orbit, offering multi-band GEO-relay and Direct-to-Earth (DTE) satellite communications for a wide array of applications. Craig Miller, President of Viasat Government, said: 'With todays space environment becoming increasingly complex, customers need agile, reliable and secure communications infrastructure that can support real-time command and control and data transport needs. Our HaloNet portfolio enables us to continue meeting these evolving near-earth mission communications needs, as well as government customers capability requirements for critical scientific and defense missions.' By combining Viasats advanced space and ground systems, HaloNet offers an integrated approach to command, control and data dissemination. Its core services include Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) Data Relay Service, Launch Telemetry DRS, High-Capacity DRS, Direct-to-Earth Service, and Mobile Command & Control, creating a comprehensive and scalable communications solution for the next era of space operations. John Reeves, Vice President of Space and Mission Systems, Viasat Government, added: 'HaloNet is helping transform near-Earth communications, combining our advanced space, ground, and networking infrastructure into a solutions portfolio addressing customer needs. Through HaloNet services, Viasat is providing a one-stop-shop for multi-band, multi-path, secure connectivity and data transport solutions that will enable both government and commercial customers missions.' Based on mission parameters, HaloNet will use GEO relay satellites to dynamically deliver data. The relay transport paths will be L-band, Ka-band or optical links with expected data rates ranging from 10s of Kbps to more than 10 Gbps for secure data dissemination on demand or pre-scheduled. Viasats global DTE ground antennas provide increased optionality and further resilience. HaloNets portfolio will provide a comprehensive solution for government and commercial users to access diverse data transport options that can be leveraged for different mission requirements.
Broadcast Pro
a day ago
- Broadcast Pro
Paratus launches LEO satellite connectivity for health centres across Africa
Through Paratus Connect2Care, eligible institutions will receive 2TB of Priority Data to guarantee uninterrupted connectivity. Paratus Group has announced the launch of Paratus Connect2Care, an initiative providing affordable, high-quality satellite internet to empower health centres and community centres in Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda and Zambia. Through Paratus Connect2Care, eligible institutions will gain access to 2TB of Priority Data, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. Powered by Starlinks Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology and backed by Paratus in-country support, Paratus Connect2Care delivers reliable, fast and stable internet to those who need it most. Unlike traditional satellite systems that operate thousands of kilometres above the Earth, Starlinks LEO satellites orbit much closer, reducing latency and enabling high-speed internet even in the most remote and hard-to-reach locations. This means health centres and community centres far from fiber or mobile network coverage can still access critical online services without compromise. Schalk Erasmus, CEO of Paratus Group, said: 'Connectivity is a lifeline for healthcare providers and community organisations. With Paratus Connect2Care, we are not just delivering internet we are delivering the means to save lives, strengthen community services and create lasting impact in areas where its needed most. This is about connecting with purpose and connecting to care.' The Paratus Connect2Care plan is offered at a discounted rate to registered healthcare facilities and community centres in Southern Africa. Applicants must provide proof of official registration to qualify. By connecting these essential institutions, Paratus aims to bridge the digital divide and support critical services in underserved and remote areas.
Broadcast Pro
2 days ago
- Broadcast Pro
Rocket Lab complete acquisition of Geost
The acquisition expands Rocket Labs end-to-end mission solutions with advanced electro-optical and infrared payloads for missile warning, tracking, and space domain awareness. Rocket Lab Corporation has completed the acquisition of the parent holding company of Geost, LLC (Geost), a developer of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) sensor systems for national security space missions, from Lightridge Solutions, a portfolio company of ATL Partners. The acquisition, first announced on May 27, 2025, was completed for $275m before closing adjustments, comprising approximately $125m in cash and 3,057,588 shares of Rocket Lab common stock, with an additional potential earnout of up to $50m tied to future revenue targets of Geosts business. With the closing of the transaction, Rocket Lab secures its status as a disruptive prime contractor for next-generation defence initiatives like the Golden Dome for America concept, and the Space Development Agencys Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, adding Optical Systems to its portfolio of capabilities as a provider of complete, mission-ready spacecraft for US national security programs. Geosts EO/IR technologies support missile warning and tracking, tactical intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, Earth observation and space domain awareness, core capabilities critical to US space assets operating in increasingly contested environments. Founded in 2004, Geost brings a proven record of performance across classified and unclassified missions, supplying resilient payloads that enhance national security and space situational awareness. In combining with Rocket Lab, Geost will tap into the Companys resources and manufacturing expertise to boost high-volume production, making EO/IR technologies available at scale. Sir Peter Beck, Rocket Lab founder and CEO, said: 'Being able to quickly build and deploy entire satellite systems is the cornerstone of future US defense strategy, and with this acquisition, were accelerating the delivery of mission critical payloads that support US national security projects. This acquisition strengthens our role in building the resilient, responsive space architecture envisioned under Golden Dome, combining Geosts proven sensing technologies with Rocket Labs ability to scale fast, secure, and integrated space solutions.' Bill Gattle, CEO of Lightridge Solutions, added: 'This is a pivotal next step for Geost. Becoming part of Rocket Lab enables Geost to take its sensing technologies further, fasterjoining forces with a company thats redefining space system delivery. Geost is excited to partner with a team that shares a commitment to speed, innovation, and national purpose. Together, Geost and Rocket Lab can scale production, accelerate delivery, and strengthen the critical space capabilities our nation depends on.' Geost will continue to operate in Arizona and Virginia, expanding Rocket Labs footprint across North America. In acquiring Geost, Rocket Lab will gain the companys extensive product assets and manufacturing facilities and laboratories, intellectual property and product inventory.
