Sateliot: LEO Satellite Constellations for 5G NB-IoT Enabling Direct-to-Device Connectivity from Space

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Connectivity gaps remain one of the limiting factors in the expansion of the Internet of Things. While terrestrial mobile networks cover only a fraction of the planet, large areas — ranging from oceans to remote industrial sites — remain outside reliable communication infrastructure. Sateliot develops a low Earth orbit satellite constellation designed to extend standard cellular connectivity beyond ground-based networks. The company focuses on integrating satellite communications directly into existing telecom standards, enabling devices to connect without specialized hardware. By positioning satellites as an extension of terrestrial infrastructure, the approach aims to support continuous, global IoT connectivity across industries and environments.

Technology and Product

Instead of building isolated satellite communication systems, Sateliot develops a constellation based on 3GPP-standard 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) technology. Its satellites operate in low Earth orbit and function as “cell towers in space”, enabling direct communication with unmodified commercial IoT devices and smartphones. The system supports 5G NTN roaming, allowing integration with existing mobile network operators worldwide. By combining satellite infrastructure with standardized telecom protocols, the platform aims to enable seamless connectivity across terrestrial and space-based networks. The architecture is designed to support low-power, low- bandwidth for NB-IoT and NR (New Radio) applications requiring global coverage and reliable data transmission.

Sateliot’s LEO satellites act as cell towers in space, enabling standard 5G NB-IoT connectivity for IoT devices. (© Sateliot)

Industrial Fit and Applications

The strongest use cases for satellite IoT connectivity emerge where terrestrial networks are unavailable or unreliable. Sateliot positions its technology for logistics, agriculture, environmental monitoring, maritime operations, and infrastructure tracking. Typical applications include asset tracking, remote sensing, water and resource monitoring, and fleet management in off-grid locations. The system is particularly relevant for industries operating across distributed or remote environments where continuous connectivity is critical. By extending cellular coverage globally, satellite IoT can support real-time data access and improve operational visibility across commercial and institutional use cases.

Mission control oversees satellite operations, using flight dynamics systems and electric propulsion for precise orbital adjustments. (© Sateliot)

Founding Team

Sateliot was founded in 2018 by Jaume Sanpera (CEO) and Marco Guadalupi (CTO), combining expertise in tele-communications, satellite engineering, finance, and product development. The founding team brings together experience across mobile network infrastructure and space systems, focusing on integrating standardized satellite connectivity into global telecom networks.