Hubble Network, a startup based in Seattle, claims to have achieved a groundbreaking feat: establishing the first-ever Bluetooth connection directly to space. Utilizing a pair of low-Earth orbiting satellites equipped with off-the-shelf Bluetooth components, the company managed to receive signals from Bluetooth devices on Earth, despite the considerable distance of approximately 400 miles between the satellites and the planet’s surface.
These satellites, launched in March, have demonstrated their capability to receive signals from simple 3.5mm Bluetooth chips over an impressive distance of 600km, according to a statement released by Hubble Network. The company’s innovative technology includes a patented phase array antenna for small satellites, likened to a “magnifying glass,” which enhances their ability to detect Bluetooth signals with an effective range of over 1 kilometer.
By harnessing this technology, Hubble Network aims to provide an alternative means for IoT devices and computing equipment to receive data, offering a solution beyond traditional broadband access. The startup emphasizes the limitations of traditional networks, particularly in remote areas, citing issues such as inadequate coverage, high power consumption, and significant operational costs.
Remarkably, Hubble Network claims that its technology can be implemented with existing off-the-shelf Bluetooth chips through a simple software update, eliminating the need for hardware modifications. This advancement promises global coverage with significantly reduced battery drain and operating costs, presenting a transformative shift in connectivity.
While technical details regarding the satellite’s reception of Bluetooth signals remain undisclosed, along with specifics regarding data transmission and connection speeds, Hubble Network asserts its collaboration with various pilot customers across multiple sectors. These include consumer devices, construction, infrastructure, supply chain, logistics, oil and gas, and defense, indicating a broad spectrum of potential applications for the technology.
Having raised $20 million in Series A funding last year, Hubble Network continues to push the boundaries of space-based connectivity, heralding a new era in wireless communication.
