# Equatys Emerges as a Shared Space Infrastructure Platform Backed by $1 Billion in Equity
A new era in satellite-based mobile connectivity is taking shape as two major industry players join forces to build a shared infrastructure platform designed to bridge the gap between terrestrial networks and space-based connectivity. The venture, known as Equatys, is set to redefine how satellite services are deployed, financed, and accessed by mobile operators around the world.
## A Neutral Shared Infrastructure Model
Equatys is being structured as a tower company-style platform, drawing on a proven approach that helped terrestrial mobile networks scale rapidly decades ago. Rather than requiring each operator to build and maintain its own satellite constellation and ground infrastructure, Equatys offers a neutral, shared layer that multiple licensees can tap into simultaneously.
This shared model carries significant advantages. It reduces the capital burden on individual operators, speeds up deployment timelines, and increases service availability across regions where cellular coverage is sparse or nonexistent. Crucially, participating operators retain full control over their own spectrum licenses, customer relationships, and commercial strategies, even as they benefit from a shared technical foundation.
The initial constellation is engineered for growth from day one. Its architecture is designed to scale to 2,800 satellites distributed across 60 orbital planes and three distinct altitude layers, allowing the system to become denser over time without requiring a fundamental redesign.
## Who Is Behind Equatys?
The platform is being co-founded by two companies with complementary strengths in the satellite and telecommunications industries.
**Space42**, a UAE-based artificial intelligence and space technology firm, brings coordinated L-band spectrum rights spanning more than 160 markets. It also holds extensive mobile operator relationships that give the platform broad commercial reach.
**Viasat**, a global satellite and secure communications provider, contributes coordinated MSS spectrum rights in the L-band worldwide and in the S-band across Europe. Viasat is expected to serve as the prime technology contractor for Equatys, overseeing the technical design and manufacturing of the satellites.
Together, these partners maintain commercial agreements with more than 400 mobile operators worldwide and have access to over 100 MHz of globally coordinated MSS spectrum, which can be used for both Direct-to-Device (D2D) services and advanced Mobile Satellite Services (MSS).
## Funding and Business Model
The financial commitment to Equatys is substantial. Both Space42 and Viasat have pledged an initial equity contribution of USD 400 million each. As the venture matures, Space42 has indicated it will increase its contribution by an additional USD 200 million during a future equity round open to third-party investors, bringing the combined equity contributions of the two founders to as much as USD 1 billion.
The funding strategy is designed to be layered and flexible. Beyond founder equity, the venture anticipates drawing on third-party equity and debt financing. Equity investors are expected to receive infrastructure-grade returns with the potential for appreciation over time. Importantly, the business model is open by design: additional spectrum licensees and satellite operators can join the ecosystem and use the constellation without needing to invest equity in the company itself.
## Why This Matters Now
The timing of Equatys’s formation aligns with a significant technological shift. The adoption of 3GPP NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) standards means that everyday smartphones and IoT devices can now connect to satellite networks without requiring specialized hardware. This opens up a market that previous generations of satellite technology could not realistically serve.
Market projections suggest the global D2D satellite connectivity sector could be worth between USD 30 billion and USD 70 billion by 2040, with the standards foundation already being laid through 3GPP Release 17 and further integration planned in future releases.
“We are creating a new infrastructure category for global D2D and advanced MSS connectivity, backed by unique spectrum assets, significant committed capital, and a business model proven to scale the mobile industry,” said one of the founding executives. The platform is designed to accelerate innovation, provide scalable and interoperable architecture, and deliver meaningful growth opportunities for all ecosystem participants.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**What is Equatys?**
Equatys is a shared space and ground infrastructure platform established by Space42 and Viasat. It provides a neutral, shared layer of satellites and ground infrastructure to support mobile connectivity in areas where terrestrial networks are unavailable or insufficient.
**How is Equatys different from other satellite ventures?**
Unlike many satellite initiatives that build proprietary networks for a single provider, Equatys operates on a tower company model. It is open, neutral, and shared, allowing multiple mobile operators and licensees to use the same infrastructure while retaining their own spectrum rights and commercial relationships.
**How many satellites will the initial constellation include?**
The architecture is designed to scale to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes and three altitude layers, with the initial constellation serving as the first phase of this expansion.
**Who are the co-founders of Equatys?**
Equatys is co-founded by Space42, a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, and Viasat, a satellite and secure communications company. Viasat is also expected to serve as the prime technology contractor.
**How much has been committed in funding?**
Both Space42 and Viasat have committed to an initial equity contribution of USD 400 million each, with an additional USD 200 million from Space42 expected in a future round for third-party investors. Combined equity contributions could reach up to USD 1 billion.
**Will individual operators need to invest in Equatys to use it?**
No. The business model is open by design, and additional licensee users can access the constellation without needing to invest equity in the company.
**What spectrum does Equatys have access to?**
Together, the founding partners have access to over 100 MHz of globally coordinated MSS spectrum, with coordinated L-band spectrum rights across more than 160 markets and S-band rights in Europe.
**What devices can connect through Equatys?**
The platform is designed to support smartphones, IoT devices, and other connected terminals directly to satellites, enabling voice, text, and data services in areas without terrestrial coverage.
**When will Equatys be operational?**
The formation of Equatys is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and the formal appointment of Viasat as prime technology contractor. Further updates will be provided as the company progresses toward operational readiness.
## Conclusion
The establishment of Equatys represents a significant shift in how satellite infrastructure is conceived and deployed. By adopting a shared, open, and standards-based approach, the platform has the potential to democratize access to space-based connectivity and accelerate the adoption of Direct-to-Device services on a global scale. With billions of dollars in committed capital, deep spectrum assets, and relationships with over 400 mobile operators, Equatys is well-positioned to become a foundational element of the next generation of mobile connectivity.
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