Spire Global, a company with offices in Glasgow, has announced the launch of a new platform that allows users to connect directly with satellites. The platform, built using Amazon Web Services and accessible through a Spire API, simplifies access to ground operations software and enables tasks such as payload monitoring, data scheduling, and mission planning.

According to Frank Frulio, general manager of Space Services at Spire, the platform aims to simplify the management of satellites and provide businesses with insights from space. For example, insurance companies can use the data to develop products that protect against climate change variables, and utilities companies can benefit from real-time data for remote forestry management.

The development of the platform has been co-funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) under the ARTES Core Competitiveness (CC) Programme, with a €1.5 million award to Spire. The platform, called the Constellation Management Platform, offers a simplified approach to satellite operations and will be managed through a web application.

The product was officially unveiled at Space Tech Expo Europe in Bremen and is available through Spire Space Services, responsible for the company’s “Space as a Service” offerings.

In addition to the new platform, Spire Global recently launched two satellites equipped with optical inter-satellite link (OISL) payloads. The satellites use optical communications terminals to securely send information between themselves, reducing data latency and improving communication security. This technology allows Spire’s satellites to communicate via optical link even while up to 5,000 kilometers apart.

Overall, Spire Global’s new platform and satellite technology advancements are set to revolutionize the management and communication capabilities of satellites and provide valuable insights for various industries.