CHICAGO, Sept. 10, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:
BA] today announced its investment in Denver-based BridgeSat Inc., an optical
communications solutions company enabling the future of
connectivity in space through a network of ground stations and
proprietary space terminals.
BridgeSat is developing a global network of optical ground
stations (OGS) to transmit large amounts of data into space quickly
and reliably. Its stations support low Earth orbit (LEO) and
geostationary (GEO) satellite optical communications, enabling
secure transmissions between satellites, other spacecraft, unmanned
aerial vehicles and high-altitude aircrafts.
"This partnership will help us continue to lead the digital
transition in satellites with technology that provides
next-generation capabilities for our customers," said Brian Schettler, managing director of Boeing
HorizonX Ventures. "Enabling BridgeSat to scale their operations
accelerates secure, reliable satellite communications around the
world."
BridgeSat was formed in 2015 to address cost, bandwidth and
infrastructure limitations in space-based optical communications.
The company recently announced an industry-first agreement with
NASA to develop a commercialized free-space optical communication
system that could support the agency's future missions.
"As we grow our OGS into a global network, this investment will
help us meet the need for secure delivery of big data from LEO and
GEO satellites at faster speeds, and a lower cost than traditional
radio frequency solutions," said Barry
Matsumori, chief executive officer of BridgeSat.
Boeing HorizonX Ventures led BridgeSat's Series B funding round,
with participation by Allied Minds. The investment and relationship
with Boeing connects BridgeSat with Boeing experts, testing labs
and other valuable resources to accelerate the deployment of its
OGS services around the world.
The role of Boeing HorizonX Ventures is to target investments
that help scale startup innovation in aerospace. Its portfolio is
made up of companies specializing in autonomous systems, additive
manufacturing, energy and data storage, advanced materials,
augmented reality systems and software, machine learning,
hybrid-electric and hypersonic propulsion and Internet of Things
connectivity.
Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading
manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defense, space and
security systems. A top U.S. exporter, the company supports
airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150
countries.
Contact
Vienna Catalani
Boeing Communications
Office: +1 425-237-7051
Mobile: +1 425-306-7012
vienna.catalani@boeing.com
Valerie Christopherson
GRC for BridgeSat Inc.
+1 949 608 0276
bridgesat@globalresultspr.com
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SOURCE Boeing