Rohde & Schwarz expands testing equipment portfolio to support Telesat Lightspeed network optimization

Rohde & Schwarz, a global leader in mobile network testing services, announced enhanced measurement options across its testing equipment portfolio to meet the unique requirements of advanced, next-generation satellite networks. Telesat (Nasdaq and TSX: TSAT), one of the world’s largest and most innovative satellite operators, has been leveraging Rohde & Schwarz’s advanced testing equipment to optimize service link design of its Telesat Lightspeed LEO network. Telesat Lightspeed aims to revolutionize global satellite connectivity by providing ubiquitous, affordable, high-capacity links at fibre-like speeds, with global service anticipated by the end of 2027.

Gerald Tietscher, Vice President Signal Generators, Power Supplies & Meters at Rohde & Schwarz, says: “At Rohde & Schwarz, we’re proud to collaborate with visionary companies like Telesat, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in satellite connectivity. Our work on the Telesat Lightspeed project exemplifies how innovative test and measurement solutions can accelerate the development of cutting-edge technologies, ultimately transforming global communications. The seamless integration of our high-end test equipment into this project underscores our commitment to delivering precise, reproducible results - a crucial factor for the reliable operation of Low Earth Orbit networks"

Telesat uses the Rohde & Schwarz signal generator R&S SMW and spectrum and signal analyzer R&S FSW to qualify and verify new RF chipsets and satellite modems across multiple vendors. The instruments are employed for testing receiver chipsets, as well as comprehensive evaluation and verification of modem performance for multiple waveforms, notably DVB-S2X and DVB-RCS2. These unique test capabilities ensure the integrity and reliability of highest data throughput rates of the Telesat Lightspeed constellation.

The collaboration with Telesat led to new product enhancements to support testing advanced capabilities of the Telesat Lightspeed network, including Beam Hopping and Superframe, DVB-RCS2 with return channels that are larger than what has previously been available in satellite network deployments.

The advanced functionalities developed by Rohde & Schwarz assist not only in the development and testing of Telesat Lightspeed satellites’ onboard processors, but also serve the broader Telesat ecosystem, including modem and chipset manufacturers.

“Rohde & Schwarz’s innovative products that support the Telesat Lightspeed waveform capability are a key enabler for validating system performance prior to the availability of production satellites and ground terminals,” stated Aneesh Dalvi, Telesat’s Vice President of Lightspeed Systems Development. “The integration of Rohde & Schwarz test equipment into our LEO development labs allows Telesat to build automated development and test environments to support 24/7 availability for onsite and remote testing.”

Rohde & Schwarz

Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its Test & Measurement, Technology Systems and Networks & Cybersecurity Divisions. For over 90 years, the global technology group has pushed technical boundaries with developments in cutting-edge technologies. The company’s leading-edge products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory and government customers to attain technological and digital sovereignty. The privately owned, Munich based company can act independently, long-term and sustainably. Rohde & Schwarz generated net revenue of EUR 2.93 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year (July to June). On June 30, 2024, Rohde & Schwarz had more than 14,400 employees worldwide.

R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.

Rohde & Schwarz Aerospace and Defense Testing

Rohde & Schwarz offers an extensive product range for testing radar, electronic warfare, satellite, navigation, guidance, military radiocommunications and radio monitoring systems in all relevant frequency bands. Outstanding performance and application-tailored measurement functions address the specific needs of the A&D sector in R&D, validation, production and in the field. This includes RF and microwave T&M instruments for lab and field measurements, turn-key systems, a full range of EMC measuring equipment as well as antennas and RF accessories. Sustainable product strategies ensure that Rohde & Schwarz products keep up with advances in technology throughout the long lifecycles customary.

Related solutions and product groups

Satellite component testing