Paris-based startup Skynopy secures $3.1M in funding to simplify mobile phone connectivity for LEO satellites

Paris-based space startup Skynopy has raised $3.1 million in a swift funding round to bring simple and seamless mobile phone connectivity to low earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Impressively, the funding was secured in just three weeks, just a few months after the company’s inception.

The funding round was supported by a diverse group of investors including the pan-European fund Heartcore Capital, Kima Ventures, Better Angle, and BPI France. Notable entrepreneurs such as Thibaud Elziere (e-founders, Hexa) and Yohann Leroy (CEO of Maia Space) also backed the round.

Skynopy plans to use the initial funding to develop its turnkey connectivity service for LEO satellite operators, addressing the growing demands of the rapidly expanding space industry. This capital will also expedite the commercial deployment of Skynopy’s “as-a-service” ground station offering. The startup has already secured industrial partnerships to integrate its initial ground station networks, facilitating its vision of seamless connectivity. Additionally, the funding will enable Skynopy to expand its team through new recruitments.

Imagine sending a video from your phone without the hassle of locating an antenna, orienting your smartphone, adjusting radio settings, and being charged per minute for antenna use. This is the technical and commercial complexity that satellite operators currently face when downloading satellite imagery or videos. Skynopy aims to eliminate these complexities.

Founded in October 2023 by Pierre Bertrand (CEO) and Antonin Hirsch (CTO)—both former directors at Loft Orbital, a US/French startup known for developing shared satellites—Skynopy aims to bring the simplicity of mobile phone connectivity to LEO satellites and the constellation sector. Their unique business model and key interface technologies set them apart in the industry.

Skynopy said it plans to introduce the infrastructure-as-a-service model to the ground segment, specifically through a network of hybrid ground stations essential for downloading satellite data. Their seamless, simplified global service enables satellite operators to connect their satellites, send commands, and receive data using Skynopy’s hybrid network of ground antennas. This “as-a-service” approach allows operators to focus on their missions without the technical burdens of connectivity or the costs of internal infrastructure, mirroring the ease of mobile phone communication.

Skynopy is developing universal connectors to interface with existing ground station networks, allowing for rapid scaling compared to traditional methods. This strategy positions Skynopy as the “Airbnb of ground antennas,” offering high-bandwidth connectivity while minimizing capital expenditures.

By managing the entire value chain of satellite mission connectivity, Skynopy aims to lead the rapidly growing ground segment market. Their unique positioning has already garnered several contracts with key players in the French space ecosystem, including HEMERIA and CNES, just six months post-incorporation.

Pierre Bertrand, CEO of Skynopy, stated: “The ground segment, particularly ground stations, is the third pillar of any space infrastructure, alongside the launch vehicle and the satellites. Today, industrial players and public policies have often underestimated this crucial element, essential for data creation and retrieval, representing up to 20% of a mission’s cost. Skynopy aims to address this oversight and provide true innovation in the business model. This funding round marks a significant milestone for Skynopy and the development of the first seamless satellite connectivity service to meet the growing needs of the space industry.”

Skynopy’s turnkey service offers satellite operators seamless communication and control over their satellites, akin to using a mobile phone. With established partnerships and a global network of antennas, Skynopy is already optimizing connectivity services for initial clients like Hemeria. Their goal is to meet the increasing demands of the LEO space industry with an innovative and efficient solution, simplifying satellite connectivity.

“Skynopy offers an innovative solution to a major challenge in the space industry. Pierre and Antonin’s profound market knowledge and ambitious international vision, evidenced by their significant contributions to Loft’s success in Europe, strengthen our belief in their ability to revolutionize the satellite connectivity sector. We are fully convinced of their transformative potential and are thrilled to be part of the Skynopy journey,” Yohan Pereira of Heartcore Capital said.