SOUTHAMPTON, U.K. and REDMOND, Wash., July 30, 2026 – Non-terrestrial network technology provider AccelerComm announced on July 30, 2026, the successful completion of two consecutive engineering engagements with Eclipse Space, a sovereign satellite infrastructure company founded by former Starlink engineers.
The joint engineering project focused on defining the physical-layer architecture for Eclipse Space’s next-generation spacecraft platforms, spanning both its direct-to-device and broadband payload families. The integrated work supports Eclipse’s initiative to deliver customer-owned, turnkey satellite constellations for nations and commercial enterprises seeking sovereign control over orbital communications infrastructure.
Digital Beamforming and Standards-Aligned Waveform Architecture
Under the technical scope of the collaboration, AccelerComm contributed to Eclipse’s digital beamformer design. The optimized architecture supports both direct-to-device and high-throughput broadband connectivity from a single, scalable spacecraft platform, allowing operators to address multiple mission requirements using a common hardware foundation.
AccelerComm’s flight-proven 5G non-terrestrial network Layer 1 physical-layer intellectual property underpins the core modem architecture. The platform incorporates advanced error correction and waveform optimization algorithms. Working alongside higher-layer software stacks from partner suppliers, the technology supports standards-aligned Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Networks as well as 5G New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks.
Overcoming Direct-to-Device Physical Layer Processing Constraints
Direct-to-device satellite connectivity presents significant physical-layer challenges because radio signals must travel hundreds of kilometers between orbital payloads and standard commercial mobile devices featuring constrained antenna sizes and limited power output. Efficient beamforming, signal processing, and forward error correction are critical to maintaining link budgets while keeping spacecraft power consumption and mass within economical limits.
The milestone expands upon AccelerComm’s previous spaceflight partnerships, which include securing research and development funding through the UK Space Agency’s International Bilateral Fund to advance regenerative spaceborne 5G base station deployments.
Executive Perspectives on Payload Development
“Direct-to-device is one of the toughest engineering challenges in satellite communications, and success ultimately depends on what happens at the physical layer,” said David Helfgott, CEO of AccelerComm. “Applying our flight-proven 5G NTN technology to Eclipse’s beamformer and modem architecture is exactly where our expertise can make the greatest difference. These engagements demonstrate that we can help customers solve critical architectural questions early, combining deep engineering support with an IP portfolio already proven in orbit.”
“Our model depends on making the hardest engineering decisions correctly, early and efficiently,” said Derek Huerta, CEO and co-founder of Eclipse Space. “AccelerComm’s depth of expertise in the 5G NTN physical layer helped sharpen our payload specifications and gave us greater confidence in the path toward our 2027 demonstrator and future operational constellations.”
In-Orbit Demonstration
By finalizing physical-layer parameters during early payload engineering phases, the joint team reduced technical risk ahead of Eclipse’s planned in-orbit demonstration mission scheduled for 2027. Both organizations expect to maintain technical collaboration as Eclipse advances toward flight hardware production and operational deployment.
