Skynopy and Kinéis partner to accelerate development of satellite ground antenna network
French space startup Skynopy, specialising in satellite connectivity, has announced a new partnership with satellite IoT operator Kinéis to launch its own network of antennas and enhance its turnkey satellite connectivity services. This collaboration addresses the increasing demand for space industry solutions.
Following its recent authorisation to manage Amazon Web Services' (AWS) network of 12 ground stations for clients, Skynopy is now accelerating the deployment of its global satellite antenna network. The startup aims to expand internationally while improving satellite data acquisition and taking control of the full space value chain.
Skynopy’s mission focuses on transforming the ground segment of the space industry, a crucial yet often neglected component in recent years. As a key pillar of the space value chain – alongside launchers and satellites – the ground segment is vital for data transmission and accounts for over 20% of mission costs, yet has historically been undervalued by both public and industry stakeholders.
Skynopy x Kinéis: Reviving the Space Ground Segment
This partnership emerged naturally. Founded in 2018, Kinéis provides IoT connectivity via satellite and operates its own constellation of 25 nanosatellites. Kinéis’ technology offers low-power, low-cost, and reliable global connectivity, used to track and collect data from fixed or mobile objects located beyond terrestrial network coverage. Meanwhile, the startup is developing a global network of ground stations, maintaining full control over the entire system.
In practical terms, this collaboration will allow Skynopy to leverage Kinéis’ expertise in ground antenna infrastructure, from antenna selection and site installation to technical documentation and licensing. This partnership represents a true strategic cooperation that could eventually lead to a more advanced and comprehensive collaboration.
“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 minimizing 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,” concluded Pierre Bertrand, Co-Founder of Kinéis.
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