Startup Achieves Milestone: Bluetooth Device Successfully Connects to Satellite in Orbit
In a groundbreaking achievement, Hubble Network, a Seattle-based startup, has achieved the extraordinary feat of establishing a direct Bluetooth connection with a satellite in orbit. This pioneering accomplishment not only defied initial scepticism but also marks a significant stride towards the company’s vision of creating a global satellite network accessible to any Bluetooth-enabled device.
The milestone was announced by Hubble Network, which launched its first two satellites earlier this year aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-10 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. Despite doubts about the feasibility of connecting Bluetooth devices to satellites, the company successfully received signals from a standard 3.5mm Bluetooth chip over a distance of 600 km.
Alex Haro, co-founder and CEO of Hubble Network, emphasized the transformative potential of this achievement, stating, “By demonstrating our ability to establish direct Bluetooth connections with satellites from a distance of 600 km, we’ve opened doors to new possibilities.” This breakthrough could pave the way for global coverage with significantly lower battery drain and operating costs, offering diverse applications across various sectors.
The implications of this achievement are vast, with potential applications ranging from consumer devices to defence and infrastructure. Hubble Network is already collaborating with pilot customers across industries to explore the capabilities of its satellite network.
Founded in 2021 by Alex Haro, Ben Wild, and John Kim, Hubble Network aims to address the limitations of existing terrestrial and satellite networks by leveraging Bluetooth technology to provide global connectivity at a fraction of the cost. The company’s success underscores its commitment to innovation and its determination to revolutionize satellite communication.
With the support of a recent $20 million Series A funding round led by Transpose Platform, Hubble Network is well-positioned to advance its mission of democratizing access to satellite connectivity and unlocking new opportunities in the digital landscape.