TOULOUSE, France - Airbus UpNext, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Airbus, has launched a new demonstrator called Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN (Space Radio Access Network). Its mission is to enable standardized global connectivity by exploring advanced 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) capabilities.

Airbus is committed to providing customers with a secure and cost-effective way to stay connected in an increasingly digitized world. This demonstrator aims to explore the 5G NTN, a versatile connectivity technology compatible with all types of business applications. Whether for commercial, defense or governmental use, it will confirm the feasibility of providing universal connectivity that is standardized, interoperable, and globally available.

Airbus UpNext SpaceRAN will leverage Airbus’ software-defined satellite 1 capabilities to manage and optimize 5G signals in orbit. By processing data directly in space rather than simply relaying it, the demonstrator 2 will prove that we can reduce latency, maximise data throughput, and enable more efficient network management and routing, opening the door to user to user direct connectivity.

To bring this initiative to life, Airbus has assembled a consortium of partners, including Aalyria, AccelerComm, CesiumAstro, Deutsche Telekom, Eutelsat, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), Keysight Technologies, Onati, Radisys, Sener and ST Engineering iDirect.

Developed as part of Air!5G, a project supported by the French government through the France 2030 investment plan under the Future Networks strategy, this demonstrator is expected to show its first results by 2028. It will be key to preparing the next generation of wireless technology (6G) and eventually driving down the cost of orbital data transmission.

Note to editors:

1. A software-defined satellite can be reprogrammed from the ground after launch.

2. This collaboration will support two key end-to-end test platforms:

· On-ground test bed: A comprehensive Earth-based setup designed to rigorously mimic and test Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite behaviour, focusing on inter-satellite data transfer and routing.

· In-orbit payload communicating with multiple terrestrial and airborne assets: Deployment of an advanced regenerative payload on an Airbus LEO satellite, connecting aircraft and users on the ground, and serving as a 5G non-terrestrial base station in space.

Source: Airbus
Associated URL: https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2026-01-airbus-launches-demonstrator-to-test-global-5g-connectivity-in

KOUROU, French Guiana - On February 12, 2026 local time, Arianespace will launch 32 Amazon Leo satellites with Ariane 64 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. The precise launch window will be announced in the coming weeks.

The mission, called VA267 (LE-01 for Amazon Leo), will initiate the first of 18 Ariane 6 launches booked to support the deployment of the Amazon Leo constellation. It will also mark the first launch for the constellation performed by a European launcher.

VA267 will be the first flight of Ariane 6 in its full-power Ariane 64 configuration, capable of carrying payloads of more than 20 metric tons to orbit. The 32 Amazon Leo satellites will be accommodated under a 20-meter-long fairing and delivered by the Ariane 64 rocket to a Low Earth Orbit.

The mission will last a total of 1 hour and 54 minutes, from lift-off to separation of all the satellites.

Amazon Leo is Amazon's low Earth orbit satellite network, whose mission is to deliver fast, reliable internet to customers beyond the reach of existing networks.

Source: Arianespace
Associated URL: https://newsroom.arianespace.com/arianespace-to-launch-first-batch-of-amazon-leo-satellites-with-the-first-ariane-64-on-february-12-2026-419088?lang=eng

HOUSTON, Tex. - Intuitive Machines, Inc. has completed its acquisition of Lanteris Space Systems, formerly Maxar Space Systems. The acquisition, first announced on November 4, 2025, was completed for $800 million before closing adjustments, consisting of $450 million in cash and $350 million in Intuitive Machines Class A common stock.

Lanteris LEO, MEO and GEO satellites support missile warning and tracking, tactical intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, Earth observation, and space domain awareness. Leveraging rapid design and efficient manufacturing, Lanteris is built to deliver with speed, innovation and has a record of proven success in space.

The acquisition aligns with the Intuitive Machines vision, strengthening the Company’s position as a vertically integrated next generation space prime that is able to build, connect, and operate end-to-end mission solutions unique to the marketplace today.

With the closing of this transaction, Intuitive Machines strengthens its ability to service future Golden Dome, Space Development Agency layered architecture, and NASA’s Artemis and Lunar Terrain Vehicle initiatives, as well as future Mars telecommunications missions.

Source: Lanteris
Associated URL: https://www.lanterisspace.com/about-us/in-the-news/2026-01-13-Intuitive-Machines-Completes-Acquisition-of-Lanteris-Space-Systems