Space Compass and Hellas Sat Sign MoU for Optical Inter-Satellite Connectivity
Japan’s Space Compass Corporation and Greece-based Hellas Sat have signed a memorandum of understanding to pursue optical inter-satellite connectivity between Hellas Sat’s planned Hellas Sat 5 (HS5) geostationary satellite and Space Compass’ GEO optical data-relay network.
The collaboration focuses on cross-operator optical interoperability, a critical requirement for scaling high-capacity, low-latency satellite networks that can bridge LEO and GEO systems. Space Compass is developing a GEO-based optical data relay service aimed at enabling near real-time Earth observation delivery, reducing dependence on ground-station availability.
Hellas Sat 5, currently in design, will feature an advanced optical payload and is expected to host the ESA HydRON (High Throughput Optical Network) demonstration payload. Positioned at 39° East, HS5 is intended to validate next-generation optical technologies, including high-capacity laser inter-satellite links and ultra-fast optical ground connectivity.
In parallel, Space Compass and ESA have signed a memorandum of intent to study optical interoperability between in-orbit demonstration networks, reinforcing HydRON’s goal of building an “internet of space” based on optical links.
From an NTN perspective, the initiative highlights how optical inter-satellite links are becoming a foundational layer for future non-terrestrial networks, enabling resilient, high-throughput backhaul across orbits, supporting real-time EO, and complementing emerging 5G/6G NTN architectures that rely on seamless space-to-space and space-to-ground integration.