Skynopy, a French startup focusing on satellite connectivity, has announced a strategic partnership with Kinéis, a satellite IoT operator, to establish its own network of antennas and enhance its efficient and sovereign satellite connectivity service. This collaboration addresses the increasing demands of the space sector.
Following its recent approval to operate Amazon Web Services’ (AWS) network of 12 ground stations for clients, Skynopy is taking another significant step. By partnering with Kinéis, the startup aims to accelerate the rollout of its global satellite antenna network. In the near term, Skynopy seeks to expand its global reach, improve satellite data acquisition for its clients, and gain full control of the entire space value chain.
This initiative is closely aligned with Skynopy’s mission to transform the ground segment of the space industry, which has often been overlooked in recent years. The ground segment, the third key pillar of the space value chain after launchers and satellites, is vital for data transmission and accounts for over 20% of mission costs. Yet, it has been undervalued by public policy and industry stakeholders.
Skynopy and Kinéis: Revitalising the ground segment of space
The collaboration with Kinéis emerged naturally. Kinéis, founded in 2018, offers IoT connectivity via a constellation of 25 nanosatellites. Its technology enables reliable, low-cost, low-power global connectivity, primarily used to track and collect data from fixed or mobile assets outside terrestrial network coverage. Kinéis also maintains a global network of ground stations, ensuring full control over its system.
Through this partnership, Skynopy will benefit from Kinéis’ expertise in ground antenna infrastructure, encompassing antenna selection, site installation, technical documentation, and licensing. This strategic cooperation could evolve into a broader collaboration over time.
“Skynopy is addressing the twin challenges of satellite data acquisition and sovereignty in an innovative way, two blind spots in today’s space industry. Combined with our expertise, their economic model and visionary approach will benefit the entire LEO satellite market, which has a critical need for connectivity, all while minimising the ground footprint,” said Alexandre Tisserant, CEO of Kinéis.
“This collaboration marks a new phase in our development. Its objective is to fill a well-identified gap in the space ecosystem, in order to strengthen the technological independence, economic competitiveness, and autonomous mission capabilities of satellite operators,” added Pierre Bertrand, Co-Founder of Kinéis.
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