ESA and CTO to Launch Europe’s First 5G mmWave Satellite Test

As Europe pushes to reclaim ground in the global space race, Constellation Technologies & Operations (CTO) has signed a major agreement with the European Space Agency (ESA) to test Europe’s first regenerative 5G mmWave payload in low Earth orbit. Scheduled for launch in June 2025, the “Early Test” will explore how space-based infrastructure can extend high-speed, low-latency 5G connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved regions.

Designed to complement terrestrial networks, the joint project aims to create a shared, neutral infrastructure model that slashes capital costs and strengthens Europe’s digital sovereignty. By leveraging telecom operators’ existing mmWave spectrum and very low Earth orbit satellites, CTO hopes to offer an affordable, high-performance alternative to U.S. and Chinese satellite giants.

“This alliance reflects a shared ambition to build a competitive European presence in space connectivity,” said CTO CEO Charles Delfieux. “Space is the new frontier for telecoms — and Europe belongs in the lead.”