Space42 and Gatehouse Satcom Prove D2D GEO Satellite Messaging

Space42 and Denmark-based Gatehouse Satcom have successfully demonstrated direct-to-device (D2D) messaging over L-band GEO satellites using 3GPP Release 17 NB-IoT standards, paving the way for Thuraya Direct, a new satellite messaging and IoT service set to launch in Q4 2025.

The collaboration proves that standard smartphones and IoT devices can connect seamlessly to Space42’s satellite network, enabling reliable connectivity in remote sectors like energy, agriculture, and transport.

“This is about extending mobile reach beyond terrestrial limits,” said Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services at Space42. The validated technology is now open to MNOs and OEMs globally, as Space42 scales toward its future D2D satellite constellation.

SOURCE: https://gatehousesatcom.com/news/space42-advances-direct-to-device-with-gatehouse-satcom/