UK-based Sky and Space Global (SAS) has completed testing the inter-satellite links (ISL) between its three nanosatellites for data rates up to two mega-symbols per second (Msps).

Representing the first inter-satellite communication of nanosatellites spreading hundreds of kilometres apart, the newly concluded test involved the three satellites of the SAS’ 3 Diamonds constellation.

Last month, all three satellites were launched aboard a PSLV rocket from the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) launch site at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, reported Satellite Evolution Group.

“Successful testing of the inter-satellite link, being verified with data rates of up to 2Msps, is very exciting for us as a company and for the wider space industry.”

The constellation has so far completed around 500 telemetry passes, generating more than 60h of telemetry.   

SAS CEO Meir Moalem said: “Successful testing of the inter-satellite link, being verified with data rates of up to 2Msps, is very exciting for us as a company and for the wider space industry, as we begin to put our disruptive technology and business model into practice."

SAS further noted that the newly tested ISL is now working and ready for ground-to-space tests, which is slated to begin in around two weeks.

When the tests are completed, the 3 Diamonds constellation will begin their commercial demonstration. When operational, it is expected to provide affordable communication services to people living in the equatorial region.