Hubble Network is set to significantly enhance its satellite-based Bluetooth system. The Seattle startup, aiming to bring Apple’s Find My to enterprises, has built a phased-array receiver for a “true Bluetooth layer around the Earth,” says CEO Alex Haro.
Next-Gen Satellites to Boost Global Coverage and Device Efficiency by 2027
This technology will launch aboard two large MuSat XL satellites from Muon Space, scheduled for 2027. The satellites will provide 12-hour global revisit times and detect BLE signals using 30x less power, extending device battery life.
The pair will serve as the foundation of Hubble’s BLE Finding Network, targeting industries like logistics, infrastructure, and defense.
Hubble made headlines in 2024 as the first company to establish a direct Bluetooth link with a satellite. Its core pitch is simple yet powerful: rather than requiring custom hardware, users can connect to the Hubble network by adding a firmware update to existing chipsets.
Global Coverage Without Infrastructure
The company says its space-based network offers major advantages — global coverage, including remote regions, and an infrastructure-free solution for developers to track assets easily.
Hubble currently operates seven satellites and aims to expand to 60 by 2028. CEO Alex Haro notes that the long-term plan includes upgrading the entire fleet to larger, more capable satellite platforms for enhanced power and performance.
The timeline is ambitious, but Haro said Hubble chose Muon for its rapid manufacturing scalability. A $146M funding boost will support this, with Muon planning to build 500+ satellites annually by 2027.
Hubble Taps Muon’s Powerful MuSat XL Platform Amid Push for Defense Contracts
Hubble will be the first to use Muon’s 500-kg MuSat XL, offering high power, fast downlinks, optical links, and near real-time communication. The deal also reflects Muon’s growing ambitions to secure larger contracts, including from the Department of Defense.
“The XL platform is ideal for SDA Tranche missions,” said Smirin, citing the agency’s missile defense effort in low Earth orbit. “It reflects our advancing tech stack and growing role in delivering versatile spacecraft.”
Muon uses a space-as-a-service model, building and operating satellites with its integrated Halo system. This approach lets companies with innovative payloads access space without building their own satellite infrastructure. This lets Hubble focus on its BLE network while Muon handles satellites and operations.
Read the original article on: Techcrunch
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