Not a space race: A space alliance for global IoT
In a significant development for global connectivity, Lacuna Space, a UK-based satellite innovator, is inviting partners worldwide to join its collaborative LoneWhisper® Direct-to-Device (D2D) constellation. This initiative, announced at the Mobile World Congress 2026, aims to enhance the deployment of Internet of Things (IoT) technology through a federated network model.
Introduction to Lacuna Space
Founded in Harwell, Oxfordshire, Lacuna Space has been at the forefront of satellite IoT technology for almost a decade. The company has invested €20 million in developing its LoneWhisper® technology, which allows standard LoRa®-enabled devices to transmit data directly to satellites, eliminating the need for terrestrial coverage. This capability is particularly crucial for areas that cellular networks cannot reach, such as remote farmland, offshore wind farms, and critical infrastructure.
How the LoneWhisper® Technology Works
The LoneWhisper® platform combines sophisticated almanac provisioning with a global ground-based message broker. This innovative approach ensures reliable message routing between devices and applications, regardless of which operator’s satellites are in view. By opening this technology to partners, Lacuna Space is creating a unique opportunity for global IoT service scaling.
Benefits of Collaboration
Instead of requiring partners to build their own satellite constellations from scratch, Lacuna Space allows them to host its gateway payloads on their spacecraft. This collaborative model significantly reduces the time, cost, and complexity associated with deploying satellite IoT services.
Rob Spurrett, CEO of Lacuna Space, stated, “This is how we fast-track the future of direct-to-device connectivity, through partnership and shared capability.” The shared infrastructure model not only enhances the reach of each partner but also strengthens the overall network, akin to mobile roaming that extends service across different operators.
Strategic Partnerships and Real-World Applications
Since announcing its collaboration with Lacuna Space in 2024, dstelecom has emerged as a key player in the European satellite IoT ecosystem. By leveraging the shared infrastructure, dstelecom has accelerated the deployment of next-generation IoT services, focusing on ocean connectivity and low-density territories. Successful pilots have already been conducted across Portugal’s coastal waters and remote northern communities, showcasing the potential of hybrid satellite-terrestrial networks.
Ricardo Salgado, CEO of dstelecom, emphasized the importance of this hybrid approach, stating, “The future of connectivity is hybrid and strategically resilient.” This partnership not only enhances dstelecom’s service offerings but also positions Portugal as a hub for the convergence of telecommunications and space infrastructure.
Operational Success and Scalability
The Lacuna Network is not just a concept; it is operational and has already proven its capabilities. With multiple payloads launched successfully and over 4 million messages delivered, the network is actively used in various sectors, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, logistics, and infrastructure.
Partners can gain instant access to this mature system, allowing them to leverage proven technology while focusing on their market solutions. The strategic advantages include faster deployment, lower capital outlay, and reduced risk, all built on open LoRaWAN standards that ensure interoperability and long-term sustainability.
A New Era for Satellite IoT
Lacuna Space is transforming Direct-to-Device connectivity from a niche concept into a deployable infrastructure. By combining massive message-handling capacity with an open partnership model, the company is paving the way for a scalable satellite IoT ecosystem.
This initiative is more than just another satellite announcement; it is an invitation to join a working global network. By collaborating with Lacuna, partners can tap into a robust technology foundation and nearly ten years of real-world deployment experience.
Join Lacuna Space at Mobile World Congress 2026
Lacuna Space will be present at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona from March 2nd to 5th, 2026. Attendees are encouraged to visit the Great Britain and Northern Ireland Pavilion, Hall 7, Stand C28, for discussions on how shared satellite infrastructure can redefine global IoT connectivity. Meetings can also be booked via contact@lacuna-space.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
LoneWhisper® technology allows standard LoRa®-enabled devices to transmit data directly to satellites without needing terrestrial coverage, making it ideal for remote locations.
Partners can host Lacuna’s gateway payloads on their spacecraft, allowing them to quickly integrate into a mature network and expand their connectivity without the high costs and complexities of building their own systems.
The strategic advantages include faster deployment of IoT services, lower capital investment, and reduced risk due to the use of proven technology and open standards, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Note: The collaboration between Lacuna Space and its partners represents a significant step towards a more connected world, leveraging satellite technology to bridge gaps in IoT connectivity.
