Core Insights - Space42 and Viasat are advancing their joint venture Equatys, aimed at enhancing direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, showcased at Mobile World Congress [1][2] - Equatys is designed as a neutral, multi-participant infrastructure platform to provide connectivity to billions underserved by terrestrial networks, leveraging over 60 years of combined experience [2] - The initiative aims to modernize legacy Mobile Satellite Services and augment terrestrial networks, with significant engineering milestones already achieved [3][4] Company Overview - Space42 is an AI-powered SpaceTech company formed in 2024 through the merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, focusing on satellite communications and geospatial analytics [10] - Viasat is a global communications company that aims to connect everyone and everything, having recently acquired Inmarsat to enhance its global communications capabilities [11] Technical and Operational Strategy - Equatys will operate in globally harmonized L- and S-band MSS spectrum, integrating terrestrial and satellite networks to ensure seamless service transitions [4] - The venture will utilize a Tower Co. model to deliver low-cost satellite capacity while maintaining partners' spectrum rights and interests [5] - The infrastructure will consist of up to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes, designed for scalability and market responsiveness [6] Commercial Engagement - Space42 has initiated partnerships with e& UAE and PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia to explore D2D connectivity, reflecting operator interest in integrated satellite-terrestrial architectures [8] - The venture is subject to definitive agreements and regulatory approvals, with further updates expected as Equatys progresses [9]

Core Viewpoint - Space42 and Viasat are advancing their plans for a global Direct-to-Device (D2D) infrastructure through their joint entity Equatys, aiming to enhance satellite connectivity for underserved populations globally [1][2]. Group 1: Company Overview - Space42 is an AI-powered SpaceTech company based in the UAE, formed from the merger of Bayanat and Yahsat in 2024, focusing on satellite communications and geospatial analytics [11]. - Viasat is a global leader in satellite communications, recently expanding its capabilities through the acquisition of Inmarsat in May 2023 [12]. Group 2: Equatys Initiative - Equatys is designed as a neutral, multi-participant shared infrastructure platform to extend 3GPP-based connectivity to billions lacking access to terrestrial networks [2]. - The initiative aims to combine terrestrial network scale with space efficiency, achieving significant engineering milestones and engaging mobile network operators [3][4]. Group 3: Technical Architecture - The system will initially operate in globally harmonized L- and S-band MSS spectrum, with capabilities across over 100 MHz of allocated MSS spectrum, aligning with 3GPP standards for seamless integration of terrestrial and satellite networks [4]. - Equatys will utilize a Tower Co. model to deliver low-cost satellite capacity while preserving partners' spectrum rights and interests [5]. Group 4: Satellite Deployment - The shared infrastructure will be supported by up to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes and three altitude layers, allowing for scalable growth to meet demand from billions of potential users [6]. Group 5: Commercial Engagement - Space42 has initiated partnerships with e& UAE and PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia to explore D2D connectivity, reflecting operator interest in integrated satellite-terrestrial architectures [7]. - The venture is subject to definitive agreements and regulatory approvals, with further updates expected as Equatys progresses [8]. Group 6: Industry Event - At the Mobile World Congress, Viasat and Space42 executives will discuss the future of space-enabled mobility, focusing on competition, service capabilities, and alignment with sovereign priorities [9].