Rohde & Schwarz has expanded its test and measurement equipment portfolio to support the performance optimization of Telesat Lightspeed, a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation expected to enter service in 2027.
The collaboration aims to accelerate development and ensure reliable system performance across the Telesat Lightspeed integrated space and terrestrial network. Designed to provide high-capacity, low-latency connectivity at fiber-like speeds, the constellation will serve enterprise, government, and mobility markets worldwide.
Telesat is employing Rohde & Schwarz’s R&S® SMW signal generator and R&S® FSW signal and spectrum analyzer to qualify and verify advanced RF chipsets and satellite modems across multiple vendor platforms. These instruments test receiver chipsets and modem performance for key waveforms such as DVB-S2X and DVB-RCS2. These advanced test capabilities help validate the high-throughput data links required by the constellation.
These upgrades improve testing of onboard satellite processors and critical ground segment components including terminals, chipsets, and modems, and support testing of onboard processors and benefit the wider Telesat ecosystem, including modem and chipset manufacturers.
“At Rohde & Schwarz, we’re proud to collaborate with visionary companies like Telesat, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in satellite connectivity,” said Gerald Tietscher, Vice President Signal Generators, Power Supplies & Meters at Rohde & Schwarz. “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 has integrated Rohde & Schwarz test equipment into its LEO development labs to enable automated and remote testing workflows. “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,” said Aneesh Dalvi, Vice President of Lightspeed Systems Development at Telesat. “These innovations enable us to validate system performance well in advance of satellite and terminal availability.”
About Rohde & Schwarz
Rohde & Schwarz develops advanced solutions across Test & Measurement, Technology Systems, and Networks & Cybersecurity. Headquartered in Munich, the company employs over 14,000 people globally and reported EUR 2.93 billion in net revenue in fiscal year 2023/2024. Its aerospace and defense testing portfolio supports RF, radar, electronic warfare, and satellite systems development through ruggedized, high-performance instruments and turnkey systems.
About 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 across all relevant frequency bands. Its application-tailored test and measurement functions are engineered for R&D, validation, production, and field use. The portfolio includes RF and microwave instruments, EMC measurement systems, antennas, accessories, and turnkey test setups. Products are designed with long lifecycle sustainability to keep pace with evolving aerospace and defense requirements.
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Source: Rohde & Schwarz; Photo Credit: Telesat
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